How to rebuild energy & vitality after treatment ends
Breast cancer can be one of the toughest experiences anyone can face, but it can also be a transformative journey. While both the physical and emotional challenges are daunting, the path to healing offers a chance to rediscover resilience and joy in unexpected ways. Today, we are excited to welcome Aastha Saggar, a stage 3 breast cancer survivor and the founder of Still Strength Wellness, where she helps survivors, patients and caregivers reclaim peace, strength, and purpose. Aastha believes that rebuilding energy and vitality is not just possible but can be a beautiful new beginning. Get ready to be inspired as she shares her personal story, along with practical strategies that will empower our listeners to not only survive but thrive.
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Real Talk: Health Insurance Hang Ups
For many Americans, health insurance open enrollment is underway. They’re deciding which coverage they need and how they can afford out-of-pocket expenses. They may be learning about high-deductible plans, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and so many other options when it comes to health insurance. So how do you know which plan is right for you? Joining me today is Valerie Nelson, manager of federal policy and advocacy at Susan G. Komen, and Mari Montesano, a manager at Komen’s Breast Care Helpline, who assists individuals in need of information, support or help navigating their breast health issues.
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When the Caregiver Needs Care
Today on Real Pink, we are joined by someone w ho knows what it means to care deeply for others and what it feels like when life suddenly requires that same care and compassion be turned inward. She’s a devoted mother and caregiver to her son, and when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she found that she was more mentally prepared to navigate it than expected. Sabrina Thomas is here to tell her story, including how she advocated for herself and learned to accept help from others when she’s so used to being the one who gives it. This conversation is a reminder that strength comes in many forms.
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Finding Strength, Sharing Hope: Guerdy Abraira on Life After Breast Cancer
Welcome to the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series on Real Pink. Each month, we bring together patients, community partners, health care providers, researchers and advocates to talk about real challenges and real solutions driving the health equity revolution. Together, we’re working to close the gaps and create a future of breast health equity for all. We are honored to be joined by Guerdy Abraira. You may know her from The Real Housewives of Miami, but beyond the cameras, Guerdy has shown incredible strength and resilience as a breast cancer survivor. This National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re talking about the power of sharing your story, building community and why organizations like Susan G. Komen are committed to ensuring that no one faces breast cancer alone.
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Real Talk: Our Family Only Knows Life with Cancer
Today we are speaking with a family who only knows life with breast cancer. With a strong family history of both breast cancer and BRCA gene mutations on the maternal side, everyone has always wondered “when”, not “if” breast cancer would affect them too. When Kathryn was diagnosed in her early 30’s like her mother was, it unveiled the difficulties of being diagnosed as a young woman. It also spurred a series of decisions by her two sisters, one of which is her twin. This is a story of support, empowerment, struggle, guilt and pain, but most of all, family. Today we welcome sisters Kathryn, Christine and Cara and their mom Vicki to the show to talk about experiences.
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Beyond the Pink Ribbon: Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer
During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, breast cancer gets more attention and that is a great thing for fundraising, awareness and early detection. However, for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, this month can be hard – and sometimes feel triggering and isolating. The widespread focus is often on screenings and celebrating survivors living a life free from cancer, which is not the reality for those with metastatic disease. Today, on MBC Awareness Day, we are excited to welcome Ashley Fernendez back to the show to talk about her lived experiences, how she seeks support and what she wants people to know about living with Metastatic Breast Cancer.
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My Komen Why
This podcast is brought to you by Nature’s Bounty. With a long-standing commitment to supporting women’s health and wellness, Nature’s Bounty is proud to partner with Susan G. Komen in the fight to end breast cancer.
As we kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with eyes and ears on the breast cancer community, we are highlighting one of our passionate Komen donors to talk about why she chooses to support Susan G. Komen. Robin Eggert Elm is a long time 3-day supporter. She first started walking with her mom and sister in 2002 and now walks yearly with an ever-growing team of family and friends. Robin has spent more than 20 years in the health care industry and has worked with more than 100 mission-driven, not-for-profit organizations, including health systems,and service providers, senior housing and Catholic women religious congregations. Robin is truly passionate about walking as long as she can to continue fighting for a cure. Today, she’s here to tell us about why she chooses to partner with Komen in this fight.
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Real Talk: Bringing Care To The Black Community
Breast cancer affects everyone differently. African American and Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Biology and genes are driving factors, but we cannot overlook the fears and concerns women in these communities have when it comes to seeking medical care. Mistrust, bad experiences and deep-rooted bias are all standing in the way of saving more lives from breast cancer.
Today, we’re joined by Jessica Williams, a leading and powerful voice in the Black community in South Florida. And Gil Zepeda, the Development Manager of Susan G. Komen in Florida. Jessica and Gil just took part in an event that brough mobile mammography to an underserved neighborhood in South Florida.
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The Language of Care: Culturally Responsive Breast Health
During Hispanic Heritage Month, we reflect not only on cultural pride but also on the urgent health challenges facing the Latino community. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Latinas, and yet barriers such as language, limited access to care and cultural stigma often prevent women from receiving the support they need. In this episode of Real Pink, we’re joined by Dr. Laura Logie of Nueva Vida, a trusted partner of Susan G. Komen® and a member of the ShareForCures® Alliance. Together, we’ll explore how culturally responsive care can transform the breast cancer experience, break down barriers and ensure that Latinas feel seen, heard and supported every step of the way.
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A Scheduling Mix-Up That Saved My Life
Naomi’s story is a powerful reminder of how something as simple as a routine mammogram—and even a scheduling mix-up—can change the course of your life. In this conversation, she opens up about her breast cancer journey, the impact it’s had on her career, her family, and her outlook on life, and why she’s passionate about encouraging others to take that potentially life-saving 15 minutes to get screened.
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Decoding Genetic Testing
Did you know that in some families with a history of prostate cancer, the women may have an increased risk of breast cancer? People with one or more first-degree relatives (father or brother) who have had prostate cancer may have an increased risk of breast cancer, especially if the prostate cancer was diagnosed at a young age. This also works in reverse with a family history of breast cancer. This increased risk is likely due to inherited gene mutations. We are lucky to be joined today by genetic testing expert, Dr. Tuya Pal. Dr. Pal is here to discuss the importance of early detection and to decode some common questions surrounding genetic testing.
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Your Healthiest Healthy: Breaking the Code on Breast Cancer
Today, we are sharing an episode of Your Healthiest Healthy, in which our Honorary Vice Chair, Paula Schneider, made an appearance. In the episode, she discusses her cancer journey, the current landscape, and Paula’s new book, Love Stays Strong, which is out today, September 2.
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Love Stays Strong: Parenting Through Cancer
We are happy to welcome back the Honorary Vice Chair of Susan G. Komen, Paula Schneider, and today she is also joined by her two daughters Zoe and Chloe. Paula faced a triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis in 2007 – after losing her mother to metastatic breast cancer years before. It goes without saying that Paula’s work is beyond personal. Since joining Komen in 2017, Paula has helped the organization usher in new programs, support services and policies that are helping families have a better chance of survival and a greater quality of life. This year, Paula has also published a children’s book inspired by her own breast cancer experience – which drops THIS WEEK on Sept. 2nd. Love Stays Strong is a book about the strength of a family’s love, especially during times of illness – designed to help parents or caregivers talk to young children about any kind of serious illness in the family.
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Bills and Barriers: Navigating the Cost of Breast Cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring more than just emotional and physical challenges — it can also create a heavy financial burden. From the cost of treatment to lesser-known expenses like transportation, childcare and lost wages, the impact can be overwhelming. In this episode of Real Pink: Health Equity Revolution, we’re joined by Toni Lee, Senior Manager of Susan G. Komen’s Patient Care Center. Toni shares powerful insights about the real costs of breast cancer, how Komen supports patients financially — even when the Financial Assistance Program is closed — and how trained patient navigators can help individuals access the resources they need to reduce the burden. If you or someone you love is navigating breast cancer, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported and empowered.
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Donna Wentz’s Journey of Courage and Healing
Donna Wentz is marking a remarkable milestone — 10 years with no evidence of breast cancer. Her journey began at just 39 years old, when she received the life-changing diagnosis of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Faced with fear and uncertainty, Donna leaned on the unwavering support of her family, friends, and colleagues. Their encouragement carried her through the challenges of surgery, treatment, and recovery, helping her find strength she didn’t know she had. Today, she reflects not only on surviving, but on the resilience, gratitude, and deeper connections that emerged from her experience.
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Real Talk:Cancer Determined My Future
Life changes in a split second when you hear the words, “you have breast cancer.” Shawna Bramel and Marian Santos know this personally. Shawna was diagnosed after having her first child, completely upending her family’s plans for more children. Marian was diagnosed at a time when she should have been thinking about her future, planning a family and focusing on preserving her reproductive health. Both ladies struggled mentally, emotionally and physically with their diagnoses and are joining us today to share more.
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Breast Cancer in Younger Women
You may have heard in the news that younger women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at higher rates than before. While women under 40 only account for 4% of breast cancer cases in the U.S., even a modest rise in breast cancer incidence is a call to action for young women to understand their personal risk and to know what’s normal for their breasts so they can be aware of any changes that should be reported to a health care provider. Joining us on the show today is Dr. Virginia Borges, a medical oncologist at the University of Colorado, whose research focuses on young women’s breast cancer. Dr. Borges is committed to finding answers and today will share what is being studied, as well as how young women can be empowered to take charge of their breast health early.
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Real Talk – Mom’ing During Treatment
How can you be a full-time mom to your children while also facing breast cancer? Can you do both? Today’s guests share how they navigated two demanding roles – mom and patient – at the same time. Young women face even greater challenges when diagnosed young with breast cancer, as many are also raising young kids. Jennie Smythe had a 2-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter when she was diagnosed, and Siana Bennett had a 1-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter when she was diagnosed. Both are joining me today to tell us their stories.
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Beyond Ramps: Breast Health Equity for Women with Disabilities
People with disabilities —especially women of color —face unique, often invisible, barriers when it comes to accessing breast health care. From physically inaccessible
mammography machines to bias and misinformation among providers, the breast cancer experience can look vastly different for women with disabilities.
In this powerful conversation, disability advocate Monique Stamps opens up about the systemic inequities faced by people with disabilities in the health care system. Drawing from her own lived experience and professional advocacy, Monique explores how we must move beyond compliance — beyond ramps and accessible doors — to build a truly inclusive breast health system that serves everybody.
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The Power in Storytelling: Alison Hall’s Breast Cancer Story
When Inside Edition reporter, Alison Hall, was assigned to cover Olivia Munn’s breast cancer story, she agreed to use the same Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool that Munn used – and to do it onscreen. Not only was this part of her research for the story, but it would also help raise awareness. What she did not expect was that her risk score ultimately would lead to her own breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 32. Alison bravely shared the news of her diagnosis on national television and has since been transparent in documenting her thoughts and feelings along the way in hopes to help other women feel less alone.
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An Oncology Nurse’s Journey with Breast Cancer
Today, we're joined by Karen Powell, a nurse practitioner who not only supports patients through breast reconstruction—but has also walked the journey herself. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Karen gained a new perspective on early detection, the emotional weight of treatment decisions, and the power of having a strong support system. In this episode, she shares how informed choices and personal stories can empower others facing a diagnosis.
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How Sherri Easter Found Grace in the Hardest Year
Today, we’re joined by Sherry Easter, who shares her powerful and uplifting journey through breast cancer—from the moment of diagnosis to treatment and beyond. Sherry opens up about the lifestyle changes she embraced, the incredible support she received from loved ones, and how laughter became one of her greatest tools in healing. Her resilience and optimism shine as she offers heartfelt advice for others facing similar challenges.
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Navigating Breast Cancer as a Trans Person
What happens when your gender journey and a breast cancer diagnosis collide?
In this special Pride Month episode of Real Pink, our guests are Ash Davidson, a trans masculine activist who went in for gender-affirming top surgery and left with a breast cancer diagnosis and Scout, executive director of the National LGBT Cancer Network. They’ll help us dive into the challenges and care gaps trans and nonbinary people face when navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. And together, we’ll explore what true gender-affirming care looks like, how to self-advocate in a medical system not built for everyone, and why inclusive, trauma-informed support isn’t just kind — it’s lifesaving.
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Faith, Brotherhood and Breast Cancer: The Caregiver’s Journey
When a loved one is diagnosed with breast cancer, the journey touches every corner of life —especially for caregivers. In honor of Black Family Cancer Awareness Week, for this powerful episode of Real Pink, we sit down with two incredible Black men of faith,
Kenneth White, spiritual adviser and group facilitator for a national addiction treatment center, and John K. Conner of Praise Is the Cure, a nonprofit focused on breast cancer awareness in the Black community, as they open up about supporting their wives through breast cancer.
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Promising Advances in Nipple-Sparing Mastectomies
If your doctor is recommending that you get a mastectomy, you will likely have some choices about how the surgery is performed. Your breast cancer treatment, your body, your breast shape and your lifestyle affect not only your options, but also the pros and cons of your options. There’s no one method that works best for everyone because each person is unique.
Today we are going to be exploring one specific type of mastectomy – the nipple-sparing mastectomy. This is a skin-sparing mastectomy that leaves the nipple and areola intact and usually improves the overall look of the reconstructed breast. Joining us on the show today are two very special guests: Dr. Mara Piltin, a Breast and Melanoma Surgical Oncologist and Physician Assistant, Maddie Beiswanger, both from Mayo Clinic. They are going to tell us more about nipple-sparing mastectomy procedures, current research that is being conducted around the use of minimally invasive robotic surgery to assist in these procedures and the possible benefits that these innovations can provide.
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Advocacy in Action: Fighting for Critical Breast Cancer Initiatives
Susan G. Komen stands alongside the rest of the cancer community with deep concern about proposed cuts in the federal budget in addition to significant policy changes which could impact access to high-quality, affordable health care. It is hard to weed through the information and to know where things stand at any moment in time so joining us on the show today is Molly Guthrie, Komen’s Vice President of Policy and Advocacy. Molly has intimate knowledge of what is happening at all levels of government and is going to share some insight with us about what is truly going on, as well as what we can all do to bring change to end breast cancer.
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Breast Health in the AANHPI Community
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) women — but far too often, cultural stigma, language barriers and a lack of tailored education prevent early detection and timely care.
To celebrate AANHPI Month, we’re joined by Dr. Judy Wang, a national leader in cancer prevention and behavioral science at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Wang unpacks how breast cancer uniquely impacts AANHPI communities, and why culturally responsive communication is critical in closing gaps in education, screening and survivorship. She also shares how providers, advocates and researchers can better meet AANHPI women where they are — with humility, trust and cultural understanding.
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Role Reversal: Caregiving for My Mom Through Breast Cancer
Caregiving can be a very personal role on many levels - assisting a loved one through their cancer diagnosis, helping with daily activities, providing support and helping to make treatment decisions may all be a part of their responsibilities. When young adults are the caregiver taking care of a parent, they face many unique challenges, such as having more duties to juggle and managing their own growing relationships and careers. Harley Stuebgen was just 25 years old when her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. She immediately stepped in as her caregiver and supported her throughout her entire breast cancer journey. For her mother, Kim, the support of her daughter and her greater community gave her the strength and support that she needed to keep going. Their experience highlights the powerful bond between mother and daughter and how allowing people to help can make all the difference.
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Real Talk: I Didn’t Want to Look Like Barbie Anymore
Laurel Pointer always knew that breast cancer was a possibility, with a strong family history and a confirmed CHEK2 gene mutation. In July 2024, Laurel was diagnosed with stage 1 invasive lobular carcinoma and immediately knew that she wanted a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Shannon Michaelson has been Laurel’s co-worker and close friend for the past 6 years. As soon as Laurel got the news of an irregular mammogram, the two were immediately on the phone and Shannon has been part of Laurel’s support team every step of the way.
Laurel recently went through the final step of her reconstruction by getting 3D nipple tattoos, with Shannon by her side. These two are committed to supporting each other and the breast cancer community; and today they are here to talk about what the procedure was like and the emotions that have gone with it.
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Healing the Body and the Mind: Mallory’s Story of Survival
Today’s guest is Mallory Tucker, a mother of four and breast cancer survivor from Georgia. She shares her experience with her diagnosis, how she approached the conversation with her children, and the role therapy played in helping her navigate treatment.
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Know Your Risk, Change Your Future
What if one call could help change not just your future, but your family’s too? In this episode of Real Pink, we're joined by Fanny Jackson, a compassionate and experienced Komen Patient Navigator, who walks us through how she helps callers to the Komen Patient Care Center understand and access genetic counseling and testing.
Fanny shares how knowing your genetic risk for breast cancer—especially for those in Black, Latino and other underserved communities — can lead to earlier interventions, more personalized care and even save lives. We’ll also talk about the systemic barriers many people face in accessing these life-changing services, and how Fanny and the Komen Patient Care Cetner team work to break those barriers down, one conversation at a time.
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Regaining Intimacy After Breast Cancer
If you’re struggling with issues affecting your sexuality, you’re not alone. Sex and intimacy can be difficult for many women after a breast cancer diagnosis. Joining us today is Amy Rowan, a Certified Clinical Sexologist and Intimacy Coach. She’s known as the Suburban Sexologist because she is just like so many of you – a busy, working mom and breast cancer survivor who just gets it. She makes talking about sex seem like the most comfortable thing in the world and she is here today to acknowledge just how hard intimacy after breast cancer can be and to give us some tips on how to deal with emotions and regain intimacy after treatment.
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Real Talk: Lifestyle & Breast Cancer Risk
Brett Heins went through breast cancer in her late 30s. Kristin Goodman was in her early 40s when she was diagnosed. Both women are well below the average age at diagnosis – 62 – leading them to wonder what caused their cancer to develop. A growing body of research shows lifestyle choices – everything from drinking alcohol to following a healthy diet – influences one’s risk of breast cancer.
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Choices To Lower Breast Cancer Risk
Everyone is at risk of breast cancer. Some are more at risk than others due to hereditary factors – such as a family history of cancers – and lifestyle choices that affect our overall health. Knowing your risk of breast cancer can help you decide what steps to take to lower your risk.
Joining me today is Dr. Jennifer Ligibel, a Susan G. Komen Scholar and Komen grantee, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Senior Physician at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an expert on the impact of lifestyle factors, cancer risk and outcomes. Through more than a dozen lifestyle intervention trials, Dr. Ligibel has evaluated the impact of exercise, weight loss, fitness, body composition and quality of life in cancer patients and survivors.
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I Had No Idea I Was at Risk
Just before her 38th birthday, Lauren Yerkes learned she had breast cancer. Genetic testing would reveal she had the BRCA2 inherited gene mutation that made her at higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. Her experience made her want to educate people about inherited genetic mutations because she had no idea at the time that she was at risk. Lauren is here today to share her story, the preventative measures she has taken for her health and how she is giving back to the breast cancer community.
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I’m Number Nine in my Family with Breast Cancer
Today, we’re honored to share the story of Nancy Pickett, a woman whose breast cancer journey is not just her own — it’s part of a long family history. Nancy is the ninth person in her family to be diagnosed with breast cancer, making her path one of both personal resilience and advocacy.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we recognize that every woman’s breast cancer journey is unique. That’s why personalized care is so important — ensuring that every patient gets the right support, resources and treatment for their specific needs.
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Real Talk: Cancer Genes Impacted Our Family
Breast cancer risk looks different for everyone. Our guests today have an inherited genetic mutation that increased their risk of breast cancer. Without knowing it, they may have passed this gene onto their children. Genetic mutations can increase risk of breast and ovarian cancers in women, and prostate cancer in men. About 10% of breast cancers are genetic – knowing if you have a gene mutation can help you take steps to lower your risk.
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“Las Tres Sisters”: Latina Storytelling Meets Breast Cancer Awareness
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] Welcome to the Real Pink Podcast by Susan G Komen. I’m Adam Walker, and each week we take a…
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Personalizing treatment for Triple Negative Breast Cancer
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Today is triple negative breast cancer day, an annual opportunity to bring more awareness to this aggressive type of breast…
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Black Bodies, Black Health: Transforming Breast Cancer Care
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: Support for the Real Pink podcast comes from Merck. From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Welcome to the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series. Each month…
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Is Personalized Medicine the Key to Better Quality of Life and Treatment?
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: This episode of The Real Pink Podcast is brought to you by Relay Therapeutics. Relay Therapeutics is a precision medicine company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts that is transforming the process of discovering new medicines by combining leading edge computational and experimental approaches. Relay Therapeutics work in breast cancer focuses on the most…
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Real Talk: Sexual Health & Vaginal Dryness
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, This is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and…
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The Importance of Taking an Active Role in Your Treatment
As we kick off Black History Month here on Real Pink, we’re excited to highlight guests who have been affected by breast cancer and are using their experiences to make an impact. Today’s guest advocated for herself to ensure that she was receiving the best, most personalized treatment for her after her diagnosis, and in the process learned the staggering fact that less than 10% of clinical trial participants are members of racial or ethnic communities who often face higher breast cancer or mortality rates. This fueled Tina Pickett to get involved. She is passionate about educating women on early detection, health equity and representation in research and her team was at the top of the fundraising board at her local Race for the Cure.
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A Pathway to Health Equity in Breast Cancer
Today, we're diving in to a vital conversation about personalized care and how that advances health equity. Joining us today is Dr. Ezinne Ihenacher, a diagnostic breast radiologist and passionate health equity advocate. Dr. Ihenacher brings her expertise and firsthand experiences to help us understand how personalized care can address systemic inequities and improve outcomes for all. In this episode, we'll discuss the transformative impact of personalized care, its role in addressing disparities, and how it can empower patients in their breast cancer journey.
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Making Tamoxifen Work for You
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink. A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Tamoxifen is a medication used to block estrogen, which is needed for some breast tumors to grow. Many survivors are…
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Real Talk: Getting a Second Opinion
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the reality patients and survivors…
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Sisters Facing Breast Cancer Together
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, This is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. On today’s show, we’re joined by two sisters who are unfortunately no strangers to breast cancer. Their biological mother passed…
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Family Matters
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, exploring real stories, struggles and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Understanding your family health history can help you take better care of your health by helping to figure out your risk and…
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Year in Review: How Komen Has Made a Difference in Health Equity
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink. A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Welcome to another powerful episode of the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series. Each month, we invite patients, community organizations,…
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Real Talk: Cancer Made Me Grateful
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, This is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors…
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The Power of Sharing: Nicole Eggert’s Breast Cancer Story
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink. A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. We are lucky to be joined today by actress, mother, breast cancer survivor, and the newest Komen ambassador, Nicole Eggert.…
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What Gratitude Looks Like in the Face of MBC
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: Support for the Real Pink podcast comes from Merck. From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Welcome to another powerful episode of the Komen Health Equity Revolution…
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Getting to Yes
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink. A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and…
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Balancing Fear of Recurrence vs. Treatment Side Effects in Survivorship
On today’s episode, we are discussing a topic that affects most women with hormone receptor-positive, early-stage breast cancer after they finish their initial treatment and begin navigating survivorship. To lower the risk of recurrence, most women begin taking anti-estrogen therapy, also called hormone therapy or endocrine therapy, but these treatments do not come without the risk of side effects. When side effects become severe, survivors may be faced with the task of weighing the benefits of hormone therapy against the associated side effects. This can be challenging and may even lead them to wonder how much longer they need to continue on the medication. Joining us today to discuss how patients and providers can balance fear of recurrence against potential side effects of treatment and how genomic testing can help guide treatment decisions is a Nurse Practitioner at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Adriana Olivo.
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How Political Determinants of Health Impact Us All
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: This episode of the Real Pink Podcast is brought to you by AstraZeneca. AstraZeneca is leading a revolution in oncology with the ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form, following the science to understand cancer and all of its complexities to discover, develop, and deliver life changing medicines to patients.…
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You Are More Than Your Diagnosis
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] Hi, and welcome to Real Pink. Joining me on the show today is a bit unusual for me. I’ve…
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From Actress to Advocate: Olivia Munn’s Inspiring Breast Cancer Story: Part Two
Today we are joined by actress, activist and mother Olivia Munn for part two of our conversation about Olivia's journey through breast cancer. Earlier this year, Olivia bravely shared her breast cancer diagnosis, urging women to advocate for early detection through the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment tool. Her heartfelt story resonated globally, prompting a surge in awareness and proactive health measures among women.
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From Actress to Advocate: Olivia Munn’s Inspiring Breast Cancer Story: Part One
Today we are joined by actress, activist and mother Olivia Munn. Earlier this year, Olivia bravely shared her breast cancer diagnosis, urging women to advocate for early detection through the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment tool. Her heartfelt story resonated globally, prompting a surge in awareness and proactive health measures among women.
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Real Talk: Breast Cancer Changed our Lives
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors…
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Episode 300: Celebrating Lessons Learned
Today, we are celebrating the 300th episode of this podcast. Over the past half decade, we have heard from survivors and thrivers, those in treatment, those living with metastatic disease, as well as family and friends of those passed and medical professionals.
We are so grateful to everyone who has come on this podcast and shared their story, helping those who need to hear it most and supporting this community.
Today, we will revisit some of the lessons we hope you have taken away from this series, 300 episodes in.
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How to Cope When Hearing About a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. We know that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U. S., which means that…
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Even the Lowest Moments are Worth Celebrating
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G. Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. A breast cancer diagnosis is shocking for young women. At a time in life, most often focused on family and…
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Latinas Navigating Diagnosis: From Fear to Resilience
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: This episode of the Real Pink Podcast is brought to you by AstraZeneca. AstraZeneca is leading a revolution in oncology with the ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form, following the science to understand cancer and all its complexities to discover, develop, and deliver life changing medicines to patients. Learn…
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The Power of Genomic Testing
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: This podcast is brought to you by Agendia, a leading provider of innovative precision oncology solutions for early stage breast cancer. Using advanced genomic tests like MamaPrint and Blueprint, they enable clinicians to quickly identify the most effective treatment plan at the point of diagnosis, minimizing risks of over and under treatment.…
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Real Talk: (Un)Wanted Advice
This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors face every day. We’re talking openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be, from being diagnosed to selecting the right treatment plan, to living day to day with metastatic breast cancer, and life after treatment ends.
In today’s episode, we’re talking about advice. Naturally, we want to help and support our friends and family when difficult situations arise, but sometimes our advice can have the opposite effect of what we intended. Without knowing, we can create doubt or confusion by telling someone going through breast cancer what WE would do if WE were diagnosed.
Valerie Engel is French-American and was treated for breast cancer in the United States. She heard from some in France that surgery wasn’t safe, and she wasn’t making the right choice. Valerie felt she had made the right decision with the input and guidance from her care team, but the opinions of others didn’t make an already difficult time any easier for her.
Dr. Miggins is a medical provider who works with her patients every day to make the best decisions for their treatment. She wants her patients to feel confident in the choice they make, knowing the options they have based on their personal breast cancer diagnosis.
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Finding Comfort and Strength in Creativity
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G. Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] Women with a very high risk of breast cancer due to genetic mutations, such as BRCA, may consider risk…
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Managing Lymphedema Symptoms During Treatment
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Welcome to another powerful episode of the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series. Each month we invite patients, community organizations,…
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Recurrence After a Double Mastectomy
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Most people diagnosed with breast cancer will never have a breast cancer recurrence. However, everyone who’s had breast cancer is…
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Real Talk: A Mastectomy Isn’t A Boob Job
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G. Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors…
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Talking Chemo – Understanding the Role of Preventative Chemo
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Chemotherapy or chemo is often associated with cancer treatment and hair loss. But what do you know about it? The…
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Breast Cancer: Keeping It Real
Today’s guest is a mom of three young girls, a firefighter and a contestant from season 36 of “The Amazing Race”, who first found out that she had lumps in her breast from a pre-taping required physical for the show. After competing on “The Amazing Race” and returning home, 36-year-old Bizzy Smith had a long road of self-advocacy ahead of her before finally receiving the breast MRI that diagnosed her breast cancer. Bizzy is here today to help raise breast cancer awareness for younger women and to keep it real with topics like talking to her daughters about the changes in her body, still wanting to feel sexy, and how she’s been able to stay connected to her husband. Her positive spin on life has made all the difference and we are thrilled to have her here today to share her story.
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The Difference Care Makes
How do you navigate breast cancer when you know the health care system is stacked against you? And, how, as a health care provider, can you best support marginalized people going through the experience of breast cancer? Let’s find out.
In this episode, Jasmine Samuel, a TNBC survivor and Black nurse shares how her experience of suboptimal care in Jackson, Miss., encouraged her to actively seek out a better care experience from MD Anderson in Houston, Texas. We’ll also hear from Komen Scholar Dr. Mariana Chavez MacGregor, a breast medical oncologist and professor at the Breast Medical Oncology Department of MD Anderson Cancer Center who will discuss how she provides compassionate care and focuses research on improving outcomes for underserved patients.
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Advocating for Your Health
When something feels off, it is important to pay attention. You know your body best and self-advocating means listening to your body and speaking up for it. Today’s guest had to fight to be taken seriously when she found a lump in her breast at age 26 because she was told that she was too young for breast cancer. Then at multiple other points throughout diagnosis and treatment, she had to advocate for her health by asking for scans and second opinions, which turned out to be necessary because she received an incorrect diagnosis.
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Real Talk: Why Didn’t Someone Tell Me?
In today’s episode, we’re calling ALL listeners – young and old – to have conversations with trusted health professionals about their risk of cancer. While breast cancer is most common in older women, today’s guests remind us that young women get breast cancer, too. And knowing if you have a genetic predisposition to breast cancer could save your life.
Dani Alderman is 30 years old and a 1-year survivor of Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Her maternal grandmother had breast cancer at a young age, so Dani is proactive about her health and gets screened every 6 months. Her mom has not had breast cancer and doesn’t carry a genetic link to breast cancer. But Dani didn’t know that a history of ovarian cancer on her dad’s side of the family could make her at greater risk of breast cancer.
Kasey Lipinski is 38 years old and living with metastatic breast cancer. Prostate cancer has affected her father and grandfather, but nobody in her family has had breast cancer. Kasey didn’t know that a prevalence of prostate cancer on her paternal side was a warning sign that she might be at risk of breast cancer.
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Supporting Someone With Breast Cancer
When a friend or loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, you may wonder how to best support them, and it may be difficult to know what to say or do. Today’s guest has been a Komen Patient Navigator for the last 4 years and spends her days talking to people diagnosed with breast cancer – helping to support and guide them through their every need, whether financial, emotional, physical or mental. Laura Grueser is truly sunshine in human form, and she is here today to help us understand we can best support our friends and family members when they are diagnosed so that they feel loved and cared for.
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Breast Care With Pride
Happy Pride Month, ya’ll! If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, finding culturally responsive, affirming health care in general can be challenging. But when you add a breast cancer diagnosis or even finding a provider who understands the importance of screening for this community because of unique risks, it becomes even more daunting. Our guest today is Dr. Chandler Cortina, a breast surgical oncologist and clinical outcomes researcher with the Cancer Center – Froedtert (pronounced FRAY dirt) Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin Health System. As an openly gay man himself and an oncology provider, he has a passion for ensuring safe breast health spaces exist for members of the LGBTQ+ community and that outcomes are similar to that of their cisgender/heterosexual peers.
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A Gateway to Empowerment: What to Know About Molecular Imaging
Molecular imaging tests can offer comprehensive views of breast cancers, especially for locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, and can help paint a clearer picture of the extent and characteristics of the cancer. This can then give doctors the ability to help guide treatment and evaluate response to treatment. Joining us on today’s show is Dr. David Mankoff, Vice Chair of Research, Radiology and the Matthew J. Wilson Professor of Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania and Associate Director of Education and Training at Penn’s Abramson Cancer Center. Dr. Mankoff is going to help us understand the complexities of breast cancer tumors, what these molecular imaging tests are looking for and who should be getting them.
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2024 Susan G. Komen Advocacy Summit
This week, nearly 300 Susan G. Komen Center for Public Policy Advocates from across the country are coming together to call on federal lawmakers to help us bring an end to breast cancer. Joining me today are two of those advocates who will be in DC to talk about their experience as public policy advocates and share how you too can join in on using your voice and echoing our message on Capitol Hill.
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Real Talk: Breast Cancer, It’s A Family Affair
This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors face every day. We’re talking openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be, from being diagnosed to selecting the right treatment plan, to living day to day with metastatic breast cancer, and life after treatment
ends.
In today’s episode, we’re learning how a BRCA2 gene mutation has affected a family–both directly and indirectly. It is my pleasure to welcome Nikki, her mom, Anita, and her sister, Kim, to the conversation. Nikki is a three-time cancer survivor, and the only one in your family who has had cancer. Nikki was diagnosed the first time with uterine cancer at the age of 31, and six years later, diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent genetic testing. That’s when she learned she had inherited a BRCA2 genetic mutation, increasing the risk of cancers.
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Things I Wish I Knew As A Young Survivor
The risk of getting breast cancer increases as you get older, but breast cancer can happen at any age. Today’s guest is Abby. Abby was diagnosed with Stage 3 luminal B invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer at the young age of 31 with no prior family history. She is mom of a 2-year-old, a DIYer and spends time trying to live a more simple, happy life.
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RERUN: Real Talk: Diagnosed During Pregnancy
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: This episode is brought to you by our friends at Major League Baseball. In recognition of Mother’s Day, Susan G. Komen and Major League Baseball are teaming up to put Moms first and raise awareness to help reduce rates of breast cancer from Susan G Komen. This is Real Pink, a podcast…
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Weathering the Emotional Storm of Breast Cancer
It is common for people diagnosed with breast cancer to experience depression, anxiety, fear, and mental and emotional distress. Today’s guest was undergoing twice yearly screenings for breast cancer because her mother and aunt had previously been diagnosed. She was scheduled to leave 5 days later for a vacation, but then, Alecia Robinson was called back for additional screenings and diagnosed with stage 1A invasive ductal carcinoma ER, PR-positive, HER2-positive breast cancer. She is here today to share the mental anguish that can come with a breast cancer diagnosis, particularly in some of the unknown and “waiting” moments, and how she has been best been able to cope and move forward.
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Navigating Mental Health and Intimacy Through Breast Cancer
Breast cancer affects everyone differently, but It is common for people diagnosed with breast cancer to experience depression, anxiety and mental or emotional distress. The support of family, friends, and others can help as you go through diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Here today to help us navigate the toll that a breast cancer diagnosis can have on your mental and sexual health are two experts from City of Hope Chicago – Behavorial Health Therapist, Alexandria Callahan, and Sexual Health/Intimacy Nurse, Cindy Ingram.
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Strong in Spirit: Maintaining Positivity with MBC
Metastatic breast cancer is the most advanced stage of breast cancer and is a breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body. Metastatic breast cancer cannot be cured today, but it can be treated with a focus on extending and maintaining quality of life. For those living with metastatic breast cancer, taking care emotional, social and spiritual needs through the support of friends, family and counseling can improve your well being. Today's guest had her life turned upside down in January when she was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the young age of 35 with no family history.
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Culture, Connections and Courage: Unapologetically Navigating Breast Cancer
Welcome to another powerful episode of the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series. Each month we invite patients, community organizations, health care partners, researchers, and policy advocates to spark conversations about strategies and solutions that drive the health equity revolution forward for multiple populations experiencing breast health inequities.
In this episode, breast cancer advocate Michelle Anderson Benjamin shares her inspiring story of living with metastatic breast cancer. Joined by licensed professional oncology counselor and breast cancer survivor Dr. Chalice Rhodes, they delve into the importance of cultural connections, the power of advocacy, and the necessity of prioritizing mental health during a breast cancer diagnosis.
Tune in during National Minority Health Month as we explore how to improve breast health outcomes. Through culture communities and connections welcome Michelle and Dr. Chalice
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Real Talk: I Need A Break
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors…
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Did You Know That Your Tumor Might Change Over Time?
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] Support for The Real Pink Podcast comes from Menarini Stemline. No two breast cancers are the same, and researchers…
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Saving Lives: Decades of Progress for Breast Cancer Survival
We still have a long way to go to conquer breast cancer, but we have made some big advances that are saving lives and making a difference. A new modeling study has recently published that the mortality rate for U.S. women with breast cancer decreased an estimated 58 percent between 1975 and 2019. Joining us on today’s show is Jennifer Caswell-Jin, MD who is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Standford Medicine, a former Komen grantee specializing in breast cancer care and research and a lead author on the study that published these findings. Dr. Caswell-Jin will help us understand why the mortality rate has gone down, the barriers that exist in getting the rate down further and what the future of breast cancer advancement looks like from her perspective.
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Komen’s Origin: From Health Equity for Women to Health Equity for All
March is Women’s History Month so it’s fitting that we talk about how Susan G. Komen started off making history and continues to make history as an organization dedicated to achieving health equity. At its inception in 1982, Komen started as a health equity organization dedicated to supporting women, at a time when even saying the word “breast” was taboo and women’s health was simply not centered. Since then, Komen has doubled down on its health equity focus and works to advance and ultimately achieve health equity for historically marginalized or underrepresented communities. Joining us today is Cati Diamond Stone, vice president of community health at Komen to talk about Komen’s origin story and how that work continues today.
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What to Know About Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema
1 in 5 women who have had breast cancer surgery and treatment are at risk for developing a potentially detrimental side effect of breast cancer – breast cancer related lymphedema— a condition in which lymphatic fluid gets trapped in lymph vessels and causes chronic arm swelling leading to reduced quality of life for many. We are thrilled to be joined today by two guests to help educate us on this topic: Dr. Steven Chen, a practicing surgeon, Chief Medical Officer at Impedimed, and past president of American Society of Breast Surgeons and Kathy Lahr, a patient advocate who will be sharing her personal experience with breast cancer related lymphedema.
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Advice for Entering Treatment from a Fitness Trainer
Starting treatment for breast cancer can be overwhelming and confusing and you might feel scared or alone. Often, hearing from people who have been diagnosed themselves can help provide a sense of safety and support. Amanda Butler was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer at the age of 32, while living a life dedicated to health and fitness as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor and on-camera trainer for large platforms like Amazon and POPSUGAR. Since her diagnosis, Amanda has been sharing details of her cancer journey online to help inspire, support and provide resources to others who are also going through cancer. She’s joining us today share some of her wisdom and tangible advice on things that have helped her get through treatment.
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Myth Busting: Breast Cancer Risk
Tune into the latest episode of Real Pink to hear Anna Horvat do some myth busting around breast cancer risk to shed light on factors that ARE and ARE NOT scientifically proven to increase you breast cancer risk so you can feel empowered to make important breast care decisions and take charge of your health.
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Destigmatizing the Conversation Around Breast Cancer for Black Women
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G. Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. [00:00:17] Welcome to another powerful episode of the Komen Health Equity Revolution Podcast Series. Each month, we invite patients, community…
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A Career Passion Turned Personal
Sometimes on our show, we hear stories of women who make career changes after they receive a breast cancer diagnosis, some of them finding that they want to chase passions, give back to others, or perhaps simply realign their priorities. It is less often, however, that we are joined by women who have devoted their entire careers to the field of breast cancer and then suddenly find themselves as the patient. We are lucky enough to be joined today by Tammy Handley, National Senior Manager of Clinical Operations for Women’s Health at FUJIFILM Healthcare Americas Corporation, and breast cancer survivor, to hear her story and what it is like when your career passion turns personal.
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Reaching New Heights As Black Breast Cancer Survivors
In today’s episode, we’ll hear from two women whose lives have been changed by breast cancer, and the ways they are soaring to new heights as Black women.
Donna Dennis is a former track and field star and known as one of the greatest female sprinters in the nation. She qualified as an alternate for the 1984 Olympics in the 200. Donna was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 at the age of 53. Donna didn’t know Black women could get breast cancer because she didn’t know anyone who had it and she never saw women who looked like her at the cancer center where she was getting chemotherapy.
Donna’s diagnosis has inspired her to speak to young, Black female athletes and educate them on their health. As an athlete, her body was always different, and she didn’t know much about her breast health.
Nia Gilliam is a pilot for United Airlines and ambassador for Black women in flying. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in June of 2022 and opted for a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Both expanders in her breasts leaked and caused infections, which meant additional surgeries for Nia. She was able to have new tissue expanders added and completed reconstruction surgery in November of 2023. But due to all the complications and a traumatic recovery, she has not yet returned to the air.
Nia is an avid advocate for Black women in aviation and started a nonprofit to encourage more young, Black women to pursue careers in flying.
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Mitigating Breast Cancer Risk in the Black Community
Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age, at later stages and with more aggressive types of breast cancer than white women. This underscores the importance of learning about your personal risk of breast cancer. Dr. Kameelah Phillips joins us today to share her insights on the value of understanding breast cancer risk in the Black community, how to advocate for yourself as a younger patient and how lifestyle changes can contribute to lowering your risk of breast cancer.
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A Personal Journey Through Breast Cancer: Advocacy, Family, and Survival
This episode of “Real Pink” presents an intimate and powerful conversation with Lauren Velarde, whose life was deeply affected by breast cancer. Lauren, shares her compelling story, from the early diagnosis at the age of 26, following a BRCA gene test, to her courageous decision to undergo a bilateral mastectomy. The episode delves into the…
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Healing Women One Scar at a Time
Tune into the latest episode of Real Pink to hear Corina Klein share how complications after surgery led her to starting a non-profit organization that provides tattoos for breast cancer survivors who lose their nipples from breast cancer, to help them feel whole again. Episode Transcript Adam Walker: 00:03 From Susan G Komen. This is…
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Real Talk: Nipple Loss From Breast Cancer
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink. A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a podcast conversation where we’re digging deep into breast cancer and the realities patients and survivors…
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Should I Do a Breast Self-Exam?
Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the U.S., but it can be successfully treated. To support screening and early detection, Susan G. Komen promotes breast self-awareness messages. These messages consist of knowing your risk, getting screened, knowing what is normal for you and making healthy lifestyle choices.…
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Beyond Treatment: Creating a Plan For the Future
Once breast cancer treatment ends, you can hardly wait to get back to normal life again. But your body may not respond as fast as you expect it to, your relationships may feel different, and you soon learn that you will need to adjust to a whole new normal in your life. Things don’t necessarily go back to the way they were before. These realizations can all be challenging from an emotional and mental perspective and may take some time to accept. Lauren Tarpley is here today to discuss the reality of what survivorship can really look like after treatment and how she was able to move past the disappointment of trying to get her old self back and to create a plan for her future.
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Real Talk: Navigating A Diagnosis At The Holidays
This is Real Talk, a new podcast series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment and talk openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be – from diagnosis, to treatment, to living with metastatic breast cancer, to life after treatment ends. In today’s episode, we’ll hear from two women who were diagnosed with breast cancer during the holiday season. Shannon Schumacher was diagnosed on December 6, 2022 and had surgery the week after Christmas. She was hospitalized on New Year’s Eve with a collapsed lung. Shannon’s mom is a six-time breast cancer survivor and her grandmother passed away from metastatic breast cancer before Shannon was born. Shannon’s stepdad is living with Stage IV bladder cancer and her brother is currently fighting lymphoma. Patricia Fox found a lump in her breast just days before Thanksgiving in 2013. She had a needle biopsy the day after Thanksgiving and received her breast cancer diagnosis on December 5th that year. Their holidays were far from what they were expecting. They managed their diagnosis and had conversations with health care providers and family members about their treatment plan. It wasn’t exactly the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”
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Surveillance Monitoring for Breast Cancer Recurrence
The goal of treating early breast cancer is to remove the cancer and keep it from coming back. When breast cancer returns after treatment, this is called a breast cancer recurrence. Most people diagnosed with breast cancer will never have a recurrence. However, everyone who’s had breast cancer is at risk of recurrence, though that risk varies greatly from person to person. Your health care provider cannot tell you whether or not you will have a recurrence, but they can give you some information about your risk. Joining us today to talk about breast cancer recurrence and the tools available for surveillance monitoring post treatment is Medical Oncologist Angel Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez Komen for the Cure Multidisciplinary Fellowship Grant Recipient.
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Healing your Mental and Emotional Health
If you’ve heard the words, “You have breast cancer,” you aren’t alone. There are more than 4 million breast cancer survivors and those living with breast cancer in the U.S – more than any other group of cancer survivors. You also likely face unique issues and concerns, such as the stress of living in a new normal and the fear of recurrence. You may still be trying to process everything that you just went through or grieving life plans that had to change. The mental and emotional effects of breast cancer are real and after being diagnosed at the age of 38, today’s guest learned for herself just how important it is to feel all your emotions through it to allow yourself to heal. Ryn Sloane is here to share her story with us and how she is now committed to helping survivors go from surviving to thriving!
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How the Patient Care Center Addresses Breast Health Inequities
Multiple communities face unique barriers to breast health care, including lack of access to quality care, financial constraints and cultural differences. Susan G. Komen’s Patient Care Center works to address these barriers by providing a variety of services and resources, such as patient navigation, financial assistance and culturally sensitive care. Komen patient navigator Mariana Garza joins us today to discuss the specific breast health inequities these communities face in accessing breast health care, as well as the ways that the Patient Care Center is helping to break down these barriers.
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Real Talk: Reconstruction or Not? Options After Breast Surgery
In today’s episode, we’ll hear from two women who both required surgery to treat their breast cancer but made different decisions about what happened after that surgery. Christy Burbidge had a mastectomy on her left side and decided not to have her breast reconstructed. Suzanne Fonseca opted for reconstruction after her breast surgery but experienced one complication after another, and multiple surgeries later, decided to have her implants removed for good. There’s no right (or wrong) decision when it comes to selecting the treatment that is right for you. And no choice is without risks or wondering after the fact if you made the right decision.
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Your First Conversation with a Friend Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
What do you say to a friend when you find out they have been diagnosed with breast cancer? How do you address them? Stacey Lucas is a close friend, mother, community member and cancer survivor. Through her journey, she has found strength in her close family, trust in her doctors and staying physically active. Tune in to hear from Stacey first hand on how to support newly diagnosed friends, family members and loved ones.
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Knowing What to Say When Someone is Diagnosed with MBC
When someone has metastatic breast cancer, it is scary for them - and for you! What can you do to really help? What should you say? Is it better to just listen? Today’s guest received a de novo metastatic diagnosis in January 2021 and then elected to retire early from a 30-year technology sales career in order to slow life down and to focus on family, friends and thriving with MBC. Carlee Dixon’s surprise diagnosis also inspired her to learn as much as possible about breast cancer and take every opportunity to educate friends and acquaintances about breast cancer prevention and the day to day reality. Today, Carlee is here to shed some light on how to best support those who are living with metastatic breast cancer.
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Working It Out: Cancer and Employment Rights
Breast cancer affects patients, survivors, families and health care professionals in many ways, one of them being the law. When someone receives a diagnosis, their job is often the first place that they may be legally impacted. Our jobs provide us with income and health insurance. Therefore, it is important to know your rights in the workplace so that you can protect yourself and have the knowledge of how to ask for what you are legally entitled to. Joining us today on the show is Shelly Rosenfeld, Director at the Cancer Legal Resource Center. She’ll help explain your rights to take time off work, the antidiscrimination laws that apply both to an employee and an interviewee, and what reasonable accommodations are under federal and state laws.
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Faith and Breast Health
Susan G. Komen’s Worship in Pink is a volunteer-driven breast health educational program powered by local faith-based communities. The program empowers faith communities with knowledge and resources to take an active role in their breast health. Here today to discuss the Worship in Pink program and why it is so important for Black congregations are Desiree Elder, Associate Pastor at First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, and Se’Nita Harris, an FCBC church member and Komen’s Multicultural Marketing Manager.
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Living Boldly and Celebrating Being Beautiful After Cancer
Women newly diagnosed with breast cancer are often desperately seeking connection from others who have been through the journey before, looking for real women with real answers. Today’s guest, Krisdee Clark, is the author of the blog The Blonde Bombshell. This is a place where she shares her personal breast cancer journey and gives hope to women that life on the other side, though different, can be wonderful again. Krisdee is a 3-year breast cancer survivor, recently finished a reign as Mrs. American 2022 and was the 2023 keynote speaker at the Susan G. Komen Advocacy Days on Capitol Hill where she also met with Congress and the Senate to obtain more co-sponsors for bills that Komen is leading for women’s health. Krisdee is here today to share her story and how she truly believes that the real part of surviving is the thriving you can do after.
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SusieCakes & Komen – A Partnership Fueled by My Personal Story
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, SusieCakes and Susan G. Komen are teaming up with limited edition desserts created to raise awareness and support their shared vision of a world without breast cancer. Susan Sarich, SusieCakes founder and CEO, leads a workforce that is 80 percent female and has been vocal about the fact that supporting Komen is more than a charitable endeavor – it’s a personal mission. She has not shared, however, how personal. Over the past 3 years, Susan has been on her own breast cancer journey – she’s been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer twice, undergoing multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation and has kept all this news private. She has now decided to share her breast cancer story to raise more awareness and is here today to tell us why this mission and partnership means so much to her. Folks, get ready because this woman is truly incredible.
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Real Talk: Young Women Get Breast Cancer
Real Talk was created to talk about real issues and although the average age at the time of a breast cancer diagnosis is 62, young women are being diagnosed every day. We’ll use this conversation to share the experiences of what it is like to go through breast cancer at a younger age, before many women even get married, have children or have an established career.
We’ll also use Maria and Jeanelle’s lived experiences to provide help (hope) and inspiration to others in this situation. Both women have been fierce advocates for themselves and the care they needed. Women who are struggling to be heard and believed can draw on their experiences to keep speaking up. This is also a great conversation to educate doctors and health care providers that no one is too young for breast cancer and should be taken seriously.
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How Komen’s PCC Supports Those Living with MBC and Caregivers
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink. A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Metastatic breast cancer, also called stage four, is when breast cancer is spread beyond the breast to other parts of…
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An Inside Look at a Breast Cancer Caregiver’s Perspective
Sergio Andres Mendoza lost the love of his life, Sarah Fernandez Mendoza, to metastatic breast cancer in 2017. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to honor Sarah’s legacy while raising their two young children, giving back to Komen in multiple ways and providing inspiration for other breast cancer caregivers who are going through what he experienced. Sergio is here today to talk about caregiver support and how he supports Komen’s mission to end breast cancer.
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Survivorship: From the Loneliest Starting Point to the Greatest Silver Lining
When active treatment ends and the last appointment is over, you are feeling many emotions. Normal is nowhere on the list. This is a point upon which most everyone can agree – there has been a great deal written about the harsh reality patients face when treatment ends, and even that word – patient. You really are no longer a patient, and that in and of itself requires a mindset shift. For all these weeks and months of treatment, a patient is all you have been. And now you’re back to your Before Life. But nothing feels like Before. Today’s guest felt ill prepared for the abrupt end of treatment and the challenge of jumping back into the rhythm of what her life looked like before breast cancer. She thought about what she wanted her survivorship to look like and found a way to take something painful and turn into something purposeful. Rebecca Walden is here to share her story with us and how she now writes about her experience to help, inspire and heal others.
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Real Talk: Latinas with Breast Cancer
This is Real Talk, a new podcast series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment and talk openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be – from diagnosis, to treatment, to living with metastatic breast cancer, to life after treatment ends.
September is Hispanic Heritage Month. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among Latinas and today I’m pleased to welcome two women who can help break down the cultural and personal stigmas about breast cancer in the Latina community.
Ashley Fernandez and Brenda Nelson are also living with metastatic breast cancer, the most advanced stage of breast cancer that cannot be cured. They’ve both felt that making friends in a new community has been hard, as they didn’t want to overshare about their lives but also wanted to be genuine and form new friendships.
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Unexpected Financial Burdens of Metastatic Breast Cancer
Continuously increasing treatment costs for patients with metastatic breast cancer can create financial hardship, which is known as financial toxicity. According to The Kaiser Family Foundation, more than 50% of women delay or avoid breast cancer care because of the associated costs. Financial toxicity can lead to difficulty accessing nutritious food and paying bills, as well as keeping up with the cost of basic living expenses. There can be many other hidden costs that add up quickly, including the cost of childcare during medical appointments and gasoline for trips to the doctor. All these stressors negatively impact cancer care by affecting a patient’s health, medication adherence, quality of life and mental health. Here today to talk to us about these unexpected costs associated with an MBC Diagnosis are Komen Scholar and Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology and Director of the Breast Cancer Program of the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Dawn Hershman, and an incredible woman who has been living with MBC for 18 years, Deborah Croskrey.
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Expanding Breast Cancer Imaging Through Public Policy
Widespread access to preventive screening mammography, without cost sharing, is available to millions of women as a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Unfortunately, some individuals at a higher risk of breast cancer or those requiring follow-up imaging due to an abnormal mammogram result face hundreds to thousands of dollars in patient cost sharing. Susan G. Komen is committed to championing legislation that addresses this disparity in health insurance coverage to ensure all cancer patients have fair and equitable access to breast imaging that may save their lives. Here today to discuss Komen’s public policy efforts at the state level are California State Senator Anthony Portantino and Rebecca Birch, Komen’s Director of State Policy & Advocacy.
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Real Talk: Getting Sexy Back
From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, A podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a new podcast series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment and talk openly…
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How I Spoke Up For What I Needed
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G. Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room When someone has breast cancer, it’s scary for them and for you, what can you do to really help? What…
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Finding a Provider Post-Diagnosis
A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Knowing which questions to ask can help you understand your diagnosis and advocate for yourself as you begin to assemble your healthcare team and develop your treatment plan with your doctors. Finding the right providers is perhaps one of the most important decisions a patient will make post diagnosis, as it is critical to find a doctor you are comfortable with and who is well suited to treat your cancer. Sometimes, barriers exist related to finding a provider, for example if insurance won’t cover certain providers or health systems. Joining us today on Real Pink is Miranda Zinn, a breast care helpline specialist who is going to share how Komen helps patients overcome some of the issues they experience, both through our navigation efforts, as well as our policy efforts.
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Surrounding Yourself with Positive People and Healthy Resources
A metastatic breast cancer diagnosis is difficult. You’re processing a lot of information and dealing with many emotions. You may feel overwhelmed and scared, but you are not alone. Today’s guest was diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma 6 months after her mammogram came back clear. Before she could begin treatment, she learned her cancer had metastasized to her abdominal lining. It has been quite a road for Mary Randall over the past 2 years since her diagnosis and she is here today to share her tips for staying positive and adjusting to a new kind of normal in order to thrive.
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The Power of Shared Data
Today we are excited to introduce ShareForCures, Komen’s groundbreaking research initiative that puts patients at the center of scientific breakthroughs. We’ll explore how ShareForCures is making waves by harnessing the power of data, empowering patients to share their health information to expedite the search for cures and better treatments for diseases like breast cancer that touch us all. Here today to tell us more about this extraordinary platform, why they are participants and the importance of diversity in research are ShareForCures Chief Scientist Dr. Melissa Bondy and two-time breast cancer survivor and Komen Scholar Dr. Barbara Segarra-Vasquez.
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Understanding the Role of Diagnostic Imaging in Breast Care
Advances in diagnostic imaging have the potential to personalize care for the MBC community. This is because these more disease-specific or target-specific imaging agents can more precisely measure cancer activity and burden at multiple time points starting at the time the patient is diagnosed and is commonly used to determine whether a therapy has been effective. On today’s show we will be discussing diagnostic imaging and its role in breast care to help enable patients to understand their diagnosis and treatment options. Joining us to share their knowledge and experience with diagnostic imaging and self-advocacy are Dr. Hannah Linden, a medical oncologist, and Gwen Manchion, who is currently living with metastatic breast cancer.
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Inspiring Women to Self-Advocate
Self-advocacy is an important and ongoing part of a breast cancer journey. It can begin as soon as you have an inkling that something is wrong and should continue through follow-up care and treatment. It can be as simple as asking your healthcare team more questions and letting them know how you’re feeling, or finding support by connecting with other people going through a similar experience as you. No one should face breast cancer alone. Knowing what to expect can help and getting support is important for your well-being. Here today to tell us her story and the importance of trusting her voice throughout her breast cancer experience is Melissa Oakes.
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Impact of Diagnosis on Mental Health
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring a wide range of emotions, including shock, fear, sadness and anger. These feelings are normal. Some people find joining a support group or talking to a counselor or therapist helpful in coping with these feelings. Today’s guest is a Komen staff member and a licensed clinical social worker with experience helping patients through the transitions that they face through their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Here today to talk to us about the impact of diagnosis on mental health and some helpful strategies to help cope is Amy Culver.
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Breast Health in the LGBTQ+ Community
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: Support for The Real Pink Podcast comes from Merck, from Susan G. Komen. This is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Welcome to the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series. Each month…
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Deepening Collaboration to Support Black Women with Breast Cancer
The breast health inequities that Black women in the U.S. experience are a social imperative that calls for collective action. Black women are about 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. To help address these inequities in Indianapolis, a group of community organizations recently came together to host a discussion about community-based resources that service breast cancer patients, to identify resource gaps and to discuss how they can work collectively to ensure Black women have access to the breast health care and support they need in their community. Lisa Hayes, the Director of Women’s Health at Gennesaret Free Clinic and Executive Director of Pink-4-Ever Ending Disparities, is here today to tell us about this initiative and how this community is coming together to collectively use their resources to support the women in their area.
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Real Talk: Expectations vs. Reality
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. This is Real Talk, a new podcast series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment…
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Supplemental and Diagnostic Imaging
Current law requires insurance companies to cover the cost of annual mammograms for women over the age of 40, without any cost to the woman. Unfortunately, individuals at a higher risk of breast cancer or those requiring follow-up imaging due to an abnormal mammogram result will likely be facing hundreds to thousands of dollars in patient cost sharing. Komen strongly supports policies that eliminate the out-of-pocket cost of these medically necessary tests. Today’s guest was diagnosed with breast cancer after having to pay nearly $2,000 out-of-pocket for diagnostic tests, all before she even got to treatment. She was grateful she could afford it, but now wants to help other women to make sure they have the resources they need to get their appropriate diagnosis. Renee Williams White is here today to share more about her story, the importance of screening and how she recently played a part in helping Susan G. Komen’s Center for Public Policy pass legislation in Maryland to do just that.
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Family Ties
Breast cancer screening and early detection play an important role in your health. Screening tests can help detect breast cancer at an early stage when the chances of survival are highest. In this episode, we will dive into the importance of screening and how that can help with early detection. As part of this conversation, we will also discuss why genetic counseling and testing is so important, along with the importance of having discussions about family health history, especially in Black families. Joining us for this discussion is Sharon Anderson, who is living with metastatic inflammatory breast cancer.
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Knowing When to Get Screened for Breast Cancer
Dr. Elizabeth Morris, M.D., is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Radiology at the University of California Davis. She is a clinician and specializes in high-risk breast cancer screening. A pioneer in the field of breast imaging, she is at the cutting edge of research using advanced screening techniques like MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) in conjunction with artificial intelligence to identify people at higher risk for breast cancer earlier, so they can receive more screening and catch breast cancer earlier. Her Komen work combines screening images, patient health information, genomics, and uses artificial intelligence to predict individuals at higher risk for breast cancer, in hopes of making a better model to identify those who would benefit from earlier or more frequent breast cancer screening. Dr. Morris is here today to talk to us about her passion for early detection and to help us understand when we should be getting screened for breast cancer.
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Recipes for Joyous Living
Finding and seeing joy in life can be a challenge. When you have been diagnosed with cancer four times and lost numerous family members to the disease, it can be even more of a challenge. However, Sulie Spencer has found ways to be victorious in body, mind and spirit and shines her light on every path she crosses. She is a great example of what faith in God, prayer and early detection can do. As a 46-year survivor, she is here today on our podcast alongside her daughter, Julie Washington, to share their family’s story, how to find joy in life despite life’s ups and downs, and how Julie was able to capture her mother’s spirit and passion for cooking in a book called Recipes for Joyous Living: A Story of Inspiration.
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Fighting while Expecting
In this episode of the Susan G. Komen "Real Talk" podcast series, Alison LoCoco and Kate Ratajczak share their personal journeys of being diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant. As guests on the show, they candidly discuss the challenges they faced during this difficult time and offer insight into how they navigated the complex and emotional decisions that came with their diagnoses. Hear firsthand how these two women balanced pregnancy and breast cancer treatment, while also taking care of themselves and their families. With this episode, the series aims to provide a platform for honest and raw conversations about breast cancer, with a focus on underrepresented experiences such as pregnancy and motherhood. Tune in to gain valuable insight and a new perspective on breast cancer, from two brave women who have been there.
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Reframing the Discussion for Surgical Options After Breast Cancer
After undergoing a mastectomy, women can either proceed with a reconstruction or “go flat”, but today’s guest says that the correct decision is what’s best for the patient. As an oncoplastic breast surgeon at City of Hope Chicago, Dr. Carolyn Bhakta performs surgical procedures for patients with breast malignancies, ranging from the earliest to advanced stages of disease. Dr. Bhakta works closely with her patients to understand their cancer needs and goals to identify the most appropriate surgical options and to heal her patients both physically and emotionally. When it comes to breast cancer surgery, there are no wrong decisions – only personal decisions.
Listen Now Connecting Black Cancer Patients to Financial Coverage
In an effort to drive systemic change, Komen partnered with ASCO and a group of health care institutions to develop and test interventions that address breast health inequities in the Black community. Here’s a peek into a success story at Parkland Hospital & Health System in Dallas, where the intervention helped connect Black cancer patients to financial coverage and ultimately improved their access to care. We are excited to speak to Maripat Hodges, Cancer Program Manager at Parkland Hospital, to learn more about this success story.
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Not the Breast Year of My Life
When you are diagnosed with breast cancer, the unknown can sometimes feel like the scariest part. The support of family, friends and others can help as you go through the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Some people find going to a support group is helpful and some people desperately long for connection with other survivors who have been through similar feelings and situations. Today’s guest, Cara Sapida, was on our show back in early 2021 and shared a poem that she had written with our listeners called Oh the Places You’ll Go Fighting Cancer. It was a poem that expressed very real emotions about cancer, the shock and reality that diagnosis can bring, and it clearly resonated with you all, as it was one of the most downloaded episodes that we’ve ever had on this show. Since we spoke to Cara last, she has continued to share the realities of her breast cancer experience through writing and has published a book called Not the Breast Year of My Life. She’s here today to tell us about this journey and fill us in on how things have been going.
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Real Talk: Pregnancy And Breast Cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis can be life altering for women and men at any age. But for younger women who want to have children, a diagnosis can immediately change their life plans. Some treatments can prevent a woman from carrying a child; some can make it more difficult to become pregnant; and some can require quick decisions about freezing eggs before treatment begins. And for women who are diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant, tough decisions must be made to ensure the health and safety of baby and mom, or to understand the possible impact treatment can have to the baby. None of these decisions or situations are easy, but fertility is an important consideration for women who are diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age. Today, I’m honored to welcome Dr. Ann Partridge, a world-renowned oncologist who focuses on treating breast cancer in young women, and Lindsay McGloughlin, a breast cancer survivor who tried but did not become pregnant after finishing active treatment.
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Myths About Mammograms
Whether you’ve had a mammogram or are preparing to have your first mammogram, chances are that you’ve heard a myth or two that might make you nervous about this important annual screening test. Here with us today to debunk some of the most common mammogram myths is Erica Kuhn, Komen’s Sr. Manager of Health Information & Publications.
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Survivorship as a Black Woman
As part of our Stand for H.E.R. series, we talk about how the breast cancer experience impacts the Black community. In this episode, we are taking a deep dive into Kay Shaw’s experience as a breast cancer survivor and the challenges women – and especially Black women – may continue to face post treatment. Welcome to the show, Kay!
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Real Talk: Early Menopause Due To Breast Cancer
Today I’m joined by two survivors who experienced menopause at an early age due to breast cancer and treatment. At the time of their diagnoses, Deb Song and Elvira Velez could have carried children. The treatment for their cancer, and subsequent hysterectomies, however, changed their lives forever.
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The Importance of Screening for Early Detection
Breast cancer screening and early detection play an important role in your health. Screening tests can help detect breast cancer at an early stage when the chances of survival are the highest. Joining us on the show today to talk about the importance of screening, imaging tests for women for dense breasts and the role of innovation and technology in screening is Henry Izawa, President and CEO of FUJIFILM Healthcare Americas Corporation.
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Taking Charge of My Breast Cancer Risk
Learning about your breast cancer risk can empower you to make important breast care decisions to take charge of your health. If you are at higher risk of breast cancer, talk with your doctor about a screening plan that’s best for you. You may need to be screened earlier and more often than other women. If genetic test results show that you have an inherited gene mutation, you may also consider risk-lowering options, such as risk-lowering drugs, prophylactic surgeries, or clinical trials. Today’s guest has an extensive family history of both breast and ovarian cancers and tested positive for a BRCA1 mutation at a young age. Here today to tell us her story and how she’s worked with her doctors to create a screening schedule to keep a close eye on things while allowing her to fulfill her life dreams is Amy Hunter.
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How Komen’s Racism & Bias Training Breaks Down Barriers
Komen’s free, virtual 10-week patient navigation training program provides specific training for patient navigators to ensure they can help Black patients overcome barriers to receiving high-quality care and treatment. The patient navigation training program takes a multifaceted approach to addressing inequities and barriers in the health care system, first and foremost by connecting patients to resources and support at every step of their breast care journey. We are excited to discuss how Komen trains patient navigators to be culturally responsive with Kelley Moultry, Komen’s Patient Navigation and Outreach Coordinator.
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Making History: Increasing Representation in Cancer Research
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is our honor to be joined today by a woman truly making history and one that I know we will be seeing much more from in the future. Dr. Zainab Shonibare, recently graduated from her PhD in 2022, is a reproductive cancer researcher at Yale University and the first Black postdoctoral researcher in her lab. Her story underscores why representation matters and diversity in research is so important, and Dr. Shonibare is here today to share her story and tell us about the focus of her research.
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Real Talk: LOVE & Breast Cancer
Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day! But we’re kicking things off a day early with a conversation about LOVE and breast cancer. February 14th it isn’t red roses and champagne toasts for everyone, and today’s conversation about LOVE reminds us of that. Se’Nita Harris was diagnosed with aggressive, triple negative breast cancer at age 37, before she found love. LaToya Bolds-Johnson was diagnosed with stage 3C triple negative breast cancer at age 36. She is married with three young girls and struggling to love the skin she’s in after treatment for her breast cancer. Whether you’re in love or looking to find love breast cancer changes you – physically, emotionally, mentally, sexually. Ladies, thank you for being on today’s show to talk about your own personally struggles to love and be loved.
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I’ve Seen the Advancements in Genetic Testing Firsthand
Genetic testing gives people the chance to learn if they’re at a higher risk of breast cancer, if their family history of breast cancer, or if their breast cancer is due to an inherited gene mutation. In the past, breast cancer genetic testing only checked for inherited gene mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. However, we’ve seen tremendous advancements and genetic discoveries in recent years, and it’s now common to be tested not only for BRCA 1 and 2 gene mutations, but also for mutations in multiple other high-risk genes. Today’s guest, Laurel Pointer, has felt the impact of these advancements first-hand in her family over the past two decades and is here to share her story with us. Laurel, welcome back to the show!
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Breast Cancer – A Family Affair
If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, learning about your risk can empower you to make important breast care decisions to take charge of your health. Today’s guest has a strong history of breast cancer in her family but was still not prepared to find a lump at the young age of 32. Here today to share her breast cancer story, how she learned to self-advocate, and the importance of educating her daughter about her breast cancer risk is Courtney Parker.
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How Public Policy is Bridging Gaps for Black Breast Health
Susan G. Komen’s Center for Public Policy identifies the public policy issue areas where Komen’s voice can provide the greatest potential for achieving the mission to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. We are excited to discuss the work Komen is doing to drive policies that will bridge gaps that affect the Black community with Molly Guthrie, Komen’s Vice President for Policy & Advocacy, and Janice Parker, a 10-year breast cancer survivor and advocate.
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20 Years Since Her Diagnosis, Julie is Stronger Than Ever
Julie Untener remembers the day like it was yesterday… 20 years ago, in January of 2003, Julie decided to do a breast exam. She’d been vigilant about getting her yearly mammograms, so on on this particular day, when she felt a marble on her left side, Julie knew something wasn’t quite right. She went to the doctor to get additional scans, and was eventually diagnosed with breast cancer. After undergoing six rounds of chemo, helping her sisters through their own mastectomies, and learning a lot of lessons along the way… Julie is here today to share her breast cancer story and what she’s learned over the last 20 years.
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Finding Empowerment After Breast Cancer
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: From Susan G. Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. On this show, we often talk about how lives are changed after breast cancer, how a survivor’s life takes on…
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Understanding Your Breast Cancer Risk
Whether you’re concerned about your risk of breast cancer, have a history of breast cancer or other cancers in your family, or are curious about genetic testing, the first step is learning more about risk. Everyone is at risk of breast cancer, and some of us are at a higher risk than others. We are pleased to have Dr. Anne Marie McCarthy, an assistant professor of epidemiology from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine here today to help educate us about breast cancer risk so we can feel empowered to make important breast care decisions and take charge of our health. Dr. McCarthy’s research is focused on developing ways to identify women who are at a high risk for aggressive breast cancer. Dr. McCarthy, welcome to the show!
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Increasing Health Care Workforce Diversity
Susan G. Komen’s approach to creating a health equity revolution through Stand for H.E.R. includes tailored interventions such as workforce development to increase diversity and improve cultural sensitivity of health care workers. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Tracy Battaglia (Bit-tag-lea) from Boston University and Kyandra (Key-andra) Fox from Komen’s Patient Navigation training team to discuss this important topic.
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The Passion Behind the Cause
Joining us on the show today is Ed Dandridge, Komen’s Chair of the Board of Directors. With more than 30 years’ experience in senior leadership roles with four Fortune 500 companies, Ed serves on executive management teams of leading global companies and works closely with Boards of Directors. Ed is here today to share what drives his passion in the fight against breast cancer. And to put his money where his mouth is, he is also going to share details about a Board match happening this month where Komen’s Board of Directors are personally matching funds donated to Komen. Ed, welcome to the show!
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Real Talk: Living With Metastatic Breast Cancer And The Holidays
This is Real Talk, a new podcast series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment and talk openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be – from diagnosis to treatment, to living with metastatic breast cancer, to life after treatment ends. Today I’m joined by three women living with metastatic breast cancer. It is my pleasure to welcome Pam Kohl, who, along with Ann Camden and Katie Mackin, are getting real about the holidays and their thoughts and feelings this time of year.
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High Risk for Breast Cancer? Create a Plan!
Everyone is at risk of breast cancer, and some of us are at a higher risk than others. Learning about your breast cancer risk can empower you to make important breast care decisions to take charge of your health. Today’s guest lost her mother to breast cancer 20 years before she had her first mammogram. The results of that first mammogram revealed something suspicious, which was a huge wake up call for her and caused her to speak with her doctors about preventative options. Here today to share what she learned and the steps she is taking to prevent breast cancer is Colleen Boraca.
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The Need for Clinical Trial Participation by Diverse Populations
Black women are less likely to participate in clinical trials than white women. We are going to discuss why that is and why it’s so important for Black women to participate in clinical trials with Sheila Marie Johnson. We have welcomed her as a guest on the podcast before and are excited to have her back. Sheila, Welcome to the show!
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Happy 200th, Real Pink
Adam Walker has dazzled our listeners as the host of Real Pink for 200 episodes. In today's episode, Samantha Harris, our very first guest, returns to interview Adam. Tune in to hear Adam share his story and what he's learned over the past 200 episodes.
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Real Talk: Talking to Your Children About Breast Cancer
This is Real Talk, a new podcast series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment and talk openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be – from diagnosis, to treatment, to living with metastatic breast cancer, to life after treatment ends. Today I’m joined by two survivors who are married with children. After learning they had breast cancer, they started thinking about how they’d share the news with their young children. What to say, what not to say, and how to explain what was happening to mom. Sheetal and Beverly let’s get real about telling your children you have breast cancer. Welcome to the show.
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An Olympian’s Story of Feeling Betrayed by Her Body
Healthy lifestyle choices, such as being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet are linked to a lower risk of breast cancer, yet no one knows exactly why one person gets breast cancer and another doesn’t. Everyone is at risk. In fact, the two most common risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and getting older. Today’s guest was blessed with a body that had served her extremely well – it helped her win a bronze medal at the Olympic Games, to navigate a successful, decade long career on Wall Street and brought two healthy babies into the world. Despite being a top-level athlete, having no history of breast cancer in her family and not being a carrier of the BRCA genes, Lauren McFall Gardner was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at the age of 40. She is here today to share her story and the impact that breast cancer had on her life and her vision of health.
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Managing Breast Cancer Like a Boss
Caregivers provide much-needed support for those going through breast cancer. This can be in the form of emotional support such as listening or giving a hug; in the form of practical help like driving to and from doctor appointments, cooking, cleaning or grocery shopping; and through providing informational support like gathering data or the latest news on breast cancer. Mountains of paperwork, medical information and appointments can be overwhelming and a lot for families to manage, especially while they are also trying to ensure that their loved ones feel cared for and understood. Today’s guest is a powerhouse entrepreneur – she was the co-founder of designer jeans brand True Religion, is a 25-year fashion industry veteran, has launched five style brands, develops and produces film and television projects with a social conscience, wrote a book, is a philanthropist and also a mentor to young fashion designers. She is also a triplet and was a caregiver to her mom throughout her battle with metastatic breast cancer. Here today to share her story and how she helped manage her mom’s breast cancer journey like a boss is Kym Gold.
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Understanding Your Risk Through Genetic Counseling and Testing
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, if you’d like to join the fight against breast cancer, please go to www.Komen.org to donate today. We need to talk about Black breast health. Black women are about 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women, diagnosed at younger ages…
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Real Talk: Breast Cancer’s Mental Impact
Today, we’re getting real about the mental and emotional impact of breast cancer.
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Carlita McIlwain Remembers Her Mother as a Service-Driven Force of Nature
Although metastatic breast cancer cannot be cured today, it can be treated. Treatment focuses on extending life and maintaining quality of life, both of which were incredibly important to Sylvia Proctor as she was living with metastatic breast cancer. Unfortunately, Sylvia passed away from MBC just before Mother’s Day last year. Her daughter, Carlita McIlwain (MAC-ILL-WAYNE), remembers her mother as an entrepreneur at heart who successfully ran more than 10 businesses during her lifetime while also working full-time. Her life was defined by her devotion to her Catholic faith and her Native American/African American family. Carlita is here today to share her mother's story, which has fueled her passion to give back and help find the cures for breast cancer. It is her hope that her work will help future generations – both in her family and in her cultures.
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Funding the Future of Groundbreaking MBC Research
Susan G. Komen knows that even one more day without a cure for metastatic breast cancer is one day too many when lives are at stake. MBC is the most advanced stage of the disease. Though there are treatments to extend life, there is no cure. That’s why this year, Komen is going one step further to raise an extra $1 million to fund the first ever MBC Excellence in Research Award. Here today to tell us about this $1 Million Challenge and some of the promising new research the grant could fund is Dr. Kim Sabelko, Komen VP of Scientific Strategy and Programs.
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Dr. Julie Palmer Researches Breast Cancer in Her Sister’s Memory
This is a promising time in metastatic breast cancer research. Many new treatments for MBC are under study and treatment is improving, allowing families more time with their loved ones. Today’s guest became a breast cancer researcher after her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Following her late sister’s MBC diagnosis and passing, she has dedicated her career to research that will help to identify women who are at especially high risk of metastatic breast cancer and to identifying lifestyle changes that may improve quality of life for women living with metastatic breast cancer. Here today to share their story in her sister’s memory and how her family history fuels her passion in searching for cures is Komen Scholar Dr. Julie Palmer.
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Finding Joy Again After Losing Jen
The loss of a partner or spouse is a traumatic event in the moments leading up to the loss are traumatic as well. While family and friends can be strong sources of support for those with breast cancer, support for their loved ones and caregivers is also crucial. Today's guest lost his wife, Jennifer, to metastatic breast cancer when he was 38 years old. Here today to share their story a decade later and what his healing process has been like in those years since is Angelo Merendino.
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An Eternal Sisterhood: Tara Coppedge Remembers Rhonda Howell
Tara Coppedge never imagined that one of her assignments as a reporter would result in forming a deep bond with Rhonda Howell, who had already been living with metastatic breast cancer for two years when they met in 2017. The two women automatically clicked and forged a deep friendship that continued until Rhonda passed away in January of this year. The impact of losing a friend or loved one is profound and often offers life lessons from the experience, such as how to be brave and to never to take any relationships for granted. Tara is here today to share the story of their friendship and how losing Rhonda changed her life and fueled her inspiration to continue making a difference in the breast cancer community.
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Real Talk: Getting Real About Breast Cancer
This is Real Talk, a new content series where we’re going to break down the stigmas and feelings of embarrassment and talk openly and honestly about just how difficult breast cancer can be – from diagnosis, to treatment, to living with metastatic breast cancer, to life after treatment ends. Who better to kick off this series than Paula Schneider, the President and CEO of Susan G. Komen, and a 15-year breast cancer survivor. Paula let’s get real about breast cancer. Welcome to the show.
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Navigating the Healthcare System and Improving Patient Outcomes
Patient navigators empower and guide patients to overcome barriers during cancer treatment, helping to ensure a seamless, high-quality breast care journey. In this episode, we are going to learn more about Komen’s Patient Navigation Program, which connects patients to resources and support every step of the way. I am excited to be joined by Tamarah Davis and her patient navigator Roselyn White to learn more about how Komen’s Patient Navigation program is improving outcomes for Black patients.
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As a Latina, I Know We Need To Talk About Breast Cancer More
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Hispanic and Latina women and they are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage than non-Hispanic women. This is why it is so important to empower Hispanic and Latina women in the U.S to understand their breast cancer risk and advocate for themselves to take control of their health. Today’s guest grew up in a Hispanic household where breast health was never really spoken about. She lives a healthy lifestyle and undergoes regular wellness appointments, including annual mammograms, so when she learned she had breast cancer, it came as a shock. Here today to tell us her story and how her diagnosis has made her passionate about educating the Hispanic community about breast health and the need for greater representation in research and clinical trials is Domenica Lagunas. Domenica, welcome to the show!
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Running For You Mom
As with any major illness, breast cancer can have effects beyond the person who is diagnosed and the death of a parent can be one of the most significant losses that someone will ever face. This is particularly true for young adults in their twenties, who are still learning to navigate life and fully transition into an independent adult. Loss, grief and mourning affects everyone in different ways and it can be a challenge to learn how to cope and seek support. Today’s guest was thriving in life and working the job of his dreams when he lost his mother to Inflammatory Breast Cancer. He then found himself shutting down from his family, his faith and even himself in the years that followed. He bravely fought his way back and is now honoring his Mom by running marathons and raising money for Susan G. Komen.
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Living with MBC in the Latinx community
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for Hispanic and Latina women in the U.S., a fact that has driven today’s guest to become a passionate advocate for health equity in the Latinx community. After her diagnosis in 2018, Idalia Guzman realized that living with MBC was possible and that she could continue to have a productive life while enduring the treatment’s side effects. In fact, she is fortunate enough that she was able to continue with her doctorate degree studies and work full time while raising two teenagers. Idalia is part of Komen’s newly formed MBC Steering Committee, which seeks to ensure the unique needs of the MBC community are integrated across Komen’s programs and initiatives. She also has provided feedback for the development Komen’s MBC Impact Series focused on the Hispanic/Latinx community and participated in Komen’s Race for the Cure in Puerto Rico. Sharing her experience and knowledge with other patients gives her a sense of purpose, so we are thrilled to have her on the show today to share her experience of living life with MBC in the Latinx community. Idalia, welcome to the show!
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The Relationship Between Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer
Women are often the gatekeepers of the family’s health and the ones responsible for ensuring their family members stay on top of health information and screenings. Because of this, it can be helpful for them to understand that certain inherited gene mutations may increase the risk of breast cancer in both women and men in their family. These inherited gene mutations may also increase the risk of other cancers such as ovarian cancer (in women) and prostate cancer (in men). Therefore, it is important for family members with inherited gene mutations to share their test results with both men and women in their families, since they all may benefit from talking to their doctors about how these mutations impact their risk for breast, prostate and other cancers as well as exploring options for genetic counseling and testing. Here today to help us specifically understand the relationship between breast cancer and prostate cancer is medical oncologist, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Director for the Program for Breast Cancer in Men at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dr. Jose Pablo Leone. Dr. Leone, welcome to the show!
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Chances of Early Detection Improve With Screening & Diagnostics Program
Breast cancer screening can help find breast cancer early when the chances of survival are highest. In this episode, we are going to learn more about Komen’s Screening & Diagnostics Program, which provides no-cost breast cancer screening and diagnostic services for people of all ages and genders who meet income guidelines in select cities. I am excited to be joined by Jade Gibson, a patient navigator at Komen, and Morgan Barnes, a Wellness Program Coordinator at the Center for Black Women’s Wellness in Atlanta, to learn more about the Screening & Diagnostics Program. Welcome to the show, Jade and Morgan!
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Body Dysmorphia After Surgery
Every person’s experience with mastectomies is different. Some people might experience extreme body dysmorphia following their surgeries and others might find the healing process easier. Concerns about body image and sexuality are common and can be especially hard for young breast cancer survivors, who find that regaining body confidence after a mastectomy can be difficult. Today’s guest was diagnosed at age 36 with stage IIIC triple-negative breast cancer and because of ongoing treatments, has not yet been able to have a breast reconstruction or even have expanders put in. Here today to talk about how that has affected her physically, emotionally and mentally is LaToya Bolds-Johnson.
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25 Years Later: Reflecting on Mom’s Cancer Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis is never easy, especially on the children of the family. Today's guest a friend of host Adam Walker -- Sindhu Giedd. Her mother was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer when she was in ninth grade. Now as a mother herself and near the age that her mother was when she was diagnosed, Sindhu reflects on her experience with her mother's diagnosis, how she thinks about her health and the health of her family, and gives us some advice for how families can include their older children in the breast cancer conversation.
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You Know Your Body Best
When something feels off, it's important to pay attention to it. Sometimes that might mean having to stand up to your healthcare team when your needs are not being met, which is not always easy. Asking questions or pushing can be difficult when you're feeling overwhelmed, scared, or want to be seen as a good patient.However, you know your body best and self advocating really boils down to listening to your body and speaking up for it. Today's guest was having warning signs that something was wrong, but dismissed them at first because she could not feel a lump. She knew her body and despite doctors telling her that it was no big deal, she pushed for further testing, which ultimately led to her diagnosis. Here today to tell her story and why it is so important to advocate for yourself until you get the answers you need is Laurie Potz.
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Patient Care Services and the Komen Helpline
The path to care is daunting and complex under the best of circumstances. But it is further complicated for underserved populations, particularly women of color, who experience significant barriers throughout the continuum of care. Komen is focused on ensuring all people receive the care they need through our Patient Care Center, which seeks to remove barriers and serve as a dedicated care partner, helpful guide, and support resource throughout the breast health care journey.
Host Adam Walker is joined by Rick Aranson, Komen's Senior Director of Patient Care Services and Krista Park Berry, Director of the Breast Care Helpline, to share more about how the Patient Care Center helps black patients overcome barriers to care.
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EP131 – The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bone Health
On today's podcast, we talked to Dr. Fred Singer from American Bone Health to discuss the link between breast cancer and bone health. You will learn about how to assess your risk of bone fractures, how to improve your overall bone health, and the different screenings available to integrate. Obtaining a baseline bone scan coupled with knowing your bone health risks can offer you a plan for maintaining strong, healthy bones, which is important to your overall health.
This episode originally aired on September 20, 2021.
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You Are Your Best Advocate
In any healthcare situation, it is important to be your own best advocate. No one knows more about your body than you do. Not your partner, not your family, not even your doctor. So when you talk with medical professionals about your health, remember that you have important information they can use. You know about changes in your body and about any problems you are having. You know what your breasts normally look and feel like. Trust your own experience and talk honestly about it with your doctor to make sure you get the care you deserve. Demand more tests when you know something isn’t quite right, understand your disease, be involved in medical care decisions, ask questions and reach out for support. Today’s guest did just that and is here to share the importance that standing up and being heard has played in her breast cancer journey. Mary Ann, welcome to the show!
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The Invaluable Support of a Patient Navigator
When you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, your life can literally change in an instant. It is important to know that you are not alone. The support of friends and family is crucial, but a patient navigator can also be an invaluable part of your support team. Patient navigators are trained to help to guide you through the healthcare system, to work with you to find the resources and support you need and to help keep you on course with your treatment plan. They are there to check on you, to lend support and let you know that you are not alone. Today’s guest was laid off from her job within a week of the time that she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Here today to tell her story and why it was so crucial to have a patient navigator to help maneuver through the many life changes that she was experiencing is Melissa Jones. Melissa, welcome to the show!
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Breaking Down Barriers with Stand for H.E.R. Interventions
Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible, despite their cultural or demographic background. But achieving this means removing obstacles to health, such as discrimination, economic disadvantages, and lack of access for certain populations and communities.
Today's guest Omatola Gordon-Rose, Senior Director of Health Equity Initiatives at Komen, understands how multiple barriers combine to create breast health inequities in the black community, and is here to share how the program Stand for H.E.R. A health equity revolution addresses these inequities through several tailored interventions. Omatola, welcome to the show.
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Running With Breast Cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis can often make it feel as if you have lost control. You may want to troubleshoot it, to find the root cause and implement a solution. Today’s guest was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2019, two days before she ran the Boston Marathon. She tried to outrun the process because she was scared to sit idle and lose. But as she discovered, sometimes there is no root cause or viable fix and you have no option but to hope, be patient and trust in the process. Here to share her story and what she learned about herself along the way is Jennifer Sinkwitts.
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Importance of Healthy Living with Bone Metastasis
When today’s guest was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer that had spread throughout her skeletal system, her daughters were ages 2, 4 and 6 and she knew that her children would never have a memory of her without cancer being in it. She decided immediately that she needed to be intentional about how she used living with cancer as a tool to help shape them. Here today to share how she focuses on protecting her bones, living her healthiest life and giving others the tools to do the same is Lauren Huffmaster. Lauren, welcome to the show!
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Living Healthy to Maintain Breast and Bone Health
Dr. Jennifer Ligibel is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Senior Physician at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She is also the Director of the Leonard P. ZAkim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living and the Director of the Center for Faculty Well-Being at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She joins us today to discuss the impact of lifestyle factors, such as physical activity and nutrition, on breast and bone health and how the decisions that we make may affect our long term health and quality of life. Dr. Ligibel, welcome to the show!
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The Mental Health Impact of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can be overwhelming and you may face many physical and emotional struggles both during your treatment and in the months and years after. It's hard to know what to expect. As many survivors will tell you, there is no normal when it comes to cancer. Figuring out life after treatment can be hard, feeling like yourself in your own skin can be hard, relationships might feel different, and your view of life may even shift.
Today's guest was living a life of service and was volunteering in Rwanda when she learned she likely had breast cancer at the age of 25. She immediately returned to the US, where tests confirmed a diagnosis of stage two triple-negative breast cancer. Here today to share her story and the impact that breast cancer had on her life and her wellbeing is Robyn Segal. Robyn, welcome to the show!
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How Biomarkers, Genetics, and Genomics Help Guide Breast Cancer Treatment
Today we are going to talk about biomarkers, genetics, genomics, and how they can assist both doctors and patients in determining the best course of treatment. Here today to help us understand the basics and complexities associated with biomarkers and genetics is Dr. Payal Shah. Dr. Shah is a medical oncologist and clinical researcher who studies triple-negative breast cancer and cancer genetics at the University of Pennsylvania. She is the recipient of a Komen Career Catalyst grant. Dr. Shah, welcome to the show!
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Breast Cancer Can Happen to Anyone
During Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Susan G. Komen is encouraging Asian American women to prioritize their breast health and get regular screenings. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Asian American and Pacific Islander women. Although Asian American women in the U.S. have similar screening mammography rates as Black, white and Hispanic women, they have more delays in follow-up care after an abnormal mammogram than white women. Today’s guest, like many people, never imagined that receiving a breast cancer diagnosis was something that could happen to her. Eating healthy and being aware of risk factors and overall health has always been a part of her lifestyle and she and even serves as the General Counsel of Susan G. Komen, with no breast cancer in her family history. Yet, in April 2021, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Here today to share her story and the importance of regular screenings and mammograms is Eunice Nakamura. Eunice, welcome to the show!
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Giving Back as a Patient Navigator
Patient navigators empower and guide patients to overcome barriers during cancer treatment, helping to ensure a seamless, high-quality breast cancer journey. They help allow the patient to focus on treatment and recovery, by helping to take care of a whole host of other things such as research for supportive and funding services available. Today’s guest had a personal experience with stage III ovarian cancer at the age of 16, which inspired her to pursue a career as a patient navigator. She wanted to help people like her find their way through a fragmented health care system and provide the guidance that she never received during her own experience with cancer. Here today to share more about her role as a patient navigator as part of Susan G. Komen’s patient navigation program in support of Stand for H.E.R – a Healthy Equity Revolution, and the ways that it can help support patients is Jade Gibson. Jade, welcome to the show!
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Finding Joy When Facing Loss
Tune into a special Mother's Day episode of Real Pink to hear multi-platinum singer/song writer Andy Grammer share the impact that losing his mom to breast cancer had on his life and how he honors her by inspiring the world through his music.
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Stronger Together
After treatment for breast cancer ends, staying involved in the breast cancer cause will make a difference in your own life and can also benefit many other people diagnosed with breast cancer and their families, now and in the future. Today, as we gear up for Mother’s Day, we are joined by a mother/daughter duo - Mary Ellen & Emily Davis. Mary Ellen was diagnosed in 2010 with Stage III Triple Negative Breast Cancer when she was 44 years old. Her daughter, Emily, was a teenager when her mom was diagnosed and has dedicated her career to the oncology world. Together, they have been a Komen 3-Day top fundraising team and are now participating in Komen More than Pink Walks. Here today to share their story are Mary Ellen and Emily – welcome to the show!
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Continuing a Legacy of Advocacy
Susan G. Komen will host their annual 2022 Advocacy Summit at the end of this month, culminating in a day of action on Wednesday, April 27. The Advocacy Summit is Komen’s only national advocacy event that provides advocates from across the country the opportunity to come together as one voice for those impacted by breast cancer. Advocates will hold hundreds of meetings with their Congressional offices virtually and call on them to support our priority policies.
Joining us today is John Scoblick, a Komen Leadership Council member and advocate whose daughter died of metastatic breast cancer at the age of 36. Before she died, Melissa was a staunch advocate for breast cancer patients, survivors and anyone at risk of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. John has continued on her legacy through his work with Komen and is using his voice to advocate for policies that will help us save lives and put an end to breast cancer. John, welcome to the show!
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How Do You Define Strength?
Anyone who’s ever had breast cancer knows what it feels like to hear the words “You have cancer.” You may feel angry, afraid, overwhelmed or unsure about the future. These feelings are normal and allowing yourself to express your emotions can help you begin to cope, which is a process that requires time, acceptance and support. Today’s guest is someone who is accustomed to feeling fully in control of her life – in her late 30’s, she was independent, working in a fast paced career in healthcare media relations and was extremely active and fit. Yet she became one of the 1 in 8 women to hear those words “You have cancer” and suddenly things started to feel out of her control. Deb Song is the Senior Director of National Public Relations and Communications at Susan G. Komen and is here today to share her story and to tell us how her experience with breast cancer redefined what strength meant to her and how she’s learned to embrace life as a team effort. Deb, welcome to the show!
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Trusting Your Gut
The signs and symptoms of breast cancer are not the same for everyone. It is important to know your normal and to see your doctor if you notice any changes in your body. Today’s guest has undergone treatment for two different types of breast cancer, being diagnosed the first time in 2007 and again in 2018. Each time she was the one to find a lump and each time she wondered if she was just being paranoid. She is passionate about sharing her story to encourage others to go for their screenings and to listen to that inner voice that might be telling you that something is just not quite right. Here today to share her story is Elizabeth Braun.
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The Connection Between Breast and Bone Health
Whether you’re healthy, have just been diagnosed with breast cancer or are living with metastatic breast cancer, the connection between breast and bone health is vital. Some breast cancer treatments can affect bone health, putting women at higher risk for bone density loss. The bones are often the first site of metastases for almost half of women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, which can lead to bone complications including bone fractures and spinal cord compressions. Bone strengthening therapies may be added to treatment plans for these women to protect bones and reduce risk. Today’s guest is passionate about educating women on how to take control of their health by learning what to look for, what questions to ask and what they can do to lower their risks of recurrence. Here today to share her breast cancer experience and how she protects her bones while living with bone metastases is Kim Crist. Kim, welcome to the show!
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I’m Still Here
Inflammatory Breast Cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that can often be mistaken for an infection or rash. Today’s guest went to the doctors thinking that she was simply having an allergic reaction. Luckily, her medical team was well versed in IBC and knew that what they were looking at was far more serious than a rash. Here today to share her story of living with Metastatic Inflammatory Breast Cancer and how she is fighting cancer every single day in order to live out her hopes, dreams and plans is Beth Porreca. Beth, welcome to the show!
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We All Need Help Sometimes
ust as everyone’s individual breast cancer diagnosis is different, everyone’s life circumstances when they are diagnosed is also different. The emotional support of family, friends and others can be important to help you as you go through diagnosis, treatment and recovery. You might also have to lean on others to help with childcare or to help with daily chores. Costs related to breast cancer can also quickly become a financial burden. Even if you have insurance and your co-payment for a single bill is low, these costs can add up if you get may bills from just one procedure from multiple departments included in your treatments. It’s OK to ask for help and there are many resources available for people with breast cancer. Today’s guest is Shareka Allen. Shareka is a young, independent mother who advocated for herself when she knew that something just wasn’t quite right and had to learn to ask for help along the way. She’s here today to tell her story. Shareka, welcome to the show!
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IBC Can’t Stop Me From Living This Life
About 1-5 percent of breast cancers in the U.S are Inflammatory Breast Cancer. This is an aggressive form of breast cancer, with signs that tend to arise quickly, often within weeks or months. The main symptoms of IBC are swelling and redness in the breast, and IBC can be hard to see on a mammogram because it may only show up as a sign of inflammation. Because of this and the frequent lack of a breast lump, IBC may first be mistaken for an infection or mastitis. Today’s guest today is Amy Capello. Amy was diagnosed with Stage 3 IBC at the age of 38 and is here to help educate us on this rare disease in hopes that it can help other women to recognize it more quickly, and to share her refreshing perspective on life since her diagnosis. Amy, welcome to the show!
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Knowledge is Power
Fast-growing breast cancers can seem to come out of nowhere. That’s what it was like for today’s guest, Selena Smith-Albino [pronounced al-BEAN-oh], when she felt a lump in her left breast six months after getting a clean bill of health following a mammogram. The diagnosis of stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma led to her decision to undergo genetic testing. Her test results would have repercussions for her entire family. Selena joins us today to share what she’s learned through her experiences that can help other women. Selena, thank you for being our guest!
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Cancer Doesn’t Define Me
After completing breast cancer treatment, many women want to leave the experience far behind them and not think about it again. That’s perfectly understandable. Others find that the experience changes their thinking about what they want to do with their life. Our guest today is one of those people. After two cancer diagnoses, she decided to devote her career to helping women navigate the challenges of breast cancer. She is a Community Programs Manager for Stand for H.E.R.—a Health Equity Revolution, a focused initiative to decrease breast cancer disparities in the Black community by 25 percent, beginning in the U.S. metropolitan areas where inequities are greatest. Joining us to walk us through her journey and talk about her work with Stand for H.E.R. is Kamesha Miles. Kamesha, welcome!
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There’s Much to be Excited About
A range of factors can contribute to the development of breast cancer, a fact that Dr. Lauren McCullough, an Atlanta-based breast cancer epidemiologist, knows all too well. She studies a wide-range of contributing factors – from race and ethnicity, to genetics and other biomarkers. Black women are still diagnosed at later stages, with more aggressive tumors and are less likely to survive. But advances in research are leading to improvements in breast cancer care for Black women, and for all women. Here to tell us about her research and the advances we might see in the future is Dr. Lauren McCullough. Thank you for joining us; we’re so pleased to have you with us today!
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Speaking Up
Women don’t necessarily have to accept the first breast cancer diagnosis we receive; we can seek a second medical opinion. That’s what our next guest, Se’Nita Harris, did. And it proved to be a smart move. It turns out that her diagnosis of metaplastic breast cancer was inaccurate. She actually had triple negative breast cancer, which called for a different treatment. Se’Nita is here today to talk about the importance of women advocating for themselves. Thank you for joining us!
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Mom…It’s Cancer
As with any major illness, breast cancer can have effects beyond the person that is diagnosed. When it happens family members and loved ones may feel many of the same emotions as the person with the diagnosis although they can never completely understand what it is like unless they have been there, and even then each diagnosis is almost like a snowflake – no two are exactly alike. Since the overall median age at diagnosis for women in the U.S. is 63, it is often a child dealing with the illness of their parent and not the other way around. Today we are lucky to be joined by a mother-daughter duo who are here to share their story of support from a perspective that we haven’t explored much on this show. In 2019, Adrienne Legault was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 27 and her mom Debbie stepped into the role of caregiver. Here to share how they have navigated the myriad of emotions that the past few years has brought to their family are Debbie and Adrienne. Welcome to the show!
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Importance of Early Detection
Screening tests are used to find breast cancer before it causes any warning signs or symptoms, when chances for survival are highest. Because of this commitment to screening, her own breast cancer was caught early. Here today to share her story with us and how her family has helped her through is Terri James. Terri, welcome to the show!
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Tumor Profiling and Breast Cancer Treatment
Every cell in your body has genes that contain the blueprints, or genetic code, for your body. Cancer develops when changes – or mutations -- in some of these genes cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and take on new characteristics. Tumor profiling, also called molecular profiling or genomic testing, gives information about the specific changes in the genes of cancer cells.
Today we are joined by Dr. Christy Russell, Vice President of US Medical Affairs at Exact Sciences, who will talk with us about tumor profiling in breast cancer. Welcome to the show, Christy!
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Standing in the Gap
Thoughtful gestures - big and small - mean so much to survivors, whether they’ve just been diagnosed or completed treatment many years ago. Today’s guest, Janice Workcuff, has devoted her life and career to advocating for needs of her fellow sisters through making phone calls, joining them at their appointments and spreading the word for improved healthcare and more clinical trials. It is her mission to raise awareness for breast cancer through speaking engagement, educational resources, counseling and hospice guidance. She stands on the premise that helping others is her purpose, her assignment, her calling – and she is a true leader that is making a difference. Janice, welcome to the show.
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Creating Purpose Through Community
Often times, creating a sense of purpose from a difficult and challenging time is the drive that someone needs to keep pushing through. Cookie Joe founded Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School 45 years ago and works daily to inspire her dancers, their families and the community that she has built. Despite battling stage 2 breast cancer, Cookie Joe has called on her community for support and they have rallied around her. She knows that 1 in 8 of her dancers are going to experience breast cancer and understands how important it is for the kids to see her persevere in the face of difficult odds. Here to share her story and how she using her role to create purpose through community is Cookie Joe. Welcome to the show!
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Hope and Healing
If you have breast cancer, you also carry a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, due to having a weakened immune system. Today’s guest was diagnosed with Stage 1, HER2-positive breast cancer before COVID vaccinations were available yet and during a time when she should have been celebrating, as she had just received her doctorate in biochemistry. The effect of navigating this diagnosis during a global pandemic was overwhelming, both physically and mentally. Here today to share her story and how she held onto hope through the process is Morgan Mitchell. Morgan, welcome to the show!
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Finding Your Survivor Swag
After treatment for breast cancer ends, many survivors find that staying involved through community or advocacy efforts can be personally rewarding and can also help others who might find themselves in a similar situation. Today’s guest founded a brand that started out as a mission to get her swagger back through exercise and a healthier lifestyle; and also focuses on healing from the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of trauma from an illness or life altering struggle. Here to share her story and what she has learned along the way is Candace Robinson. Candace, welcome to the show!
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The Power of Sharing
A breast cancer diagnosis isn’t easy and significant support is often needed to care for your emotional, social, spiritual and practical needs. Being able to lean on those closest to you can make all the difference. We also often hear people say that sharing their story with others who might be going through a similar situation can be therapeutic as well. It is so important to not try to go through it alone. Today’s guest underwent treatment for breast cancer two decades ago, but to this day, is still eternally grateful to the people that supported her and her family through such a challenging time. Trish, welcome to the show!
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How Biking Helped Me Through Treatment
Whether you are newly diagnosed, are in active treatment or completed treatment years ago, breast cancer affects how you feel inside and out. You have to cope with the emotional strain of the diagnosis and the physical challenges of treatment, as well as the stresses of daily life. Even though your diagnosis may be similar to another person’s, the way breast cancer impacts your life is unique, much as the activities that help maintain your quality of life are unique. Today’s guest loves biking and quickly found that maintaining that activity throughout her treatment helped her feel like herself, her most happy and capable self. Here to share her breast cancer story and how biking helped her through it is Maria Boustead. Maria, welcome to the show.
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Topic: Breast Cancer is Not Just for Those Over 40
It’s often thought that breast cancer only affects women over 40. But, unfortunately, that’s not the case. Breast cancer is rare in young women, but it does happen. And, when a young woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, it can be shocking. At a time in life when most young women are focused on friends and career, all of a sudden issues of treatment, recovery, and survivorship suddenly take top priority. Hannah Hancock joins the podcast today to share her story and how she navigated being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 22.
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Taking Action to Improve Health Equity
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: Support for the Real Pink podcast comes from Lilly. For more than 50 years, Lilly has been dedicated to delivering life-changing medicines and support to people living with cancer. And those who care for them. Lilly is determined to build on this heritage and continue making life better for all those affected…
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Taking Charge of Your Own Health
Bilateral prophylactic mastectomies can lower the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk by at least 90% and can be a healthy choice for young women with significant family histories of breast cancer like today’s guest, Sara Baumann, does. After a 10 year long history of yearly breast ultrasounds, biopsies and MRI’s, and a lumpectomy for a suspicious lump in her left breast, Sara spoke to her surgeon to weigh the pros and cons and ultimately decided to take charge of her own health by having a prophylactic double mastectomy at the age of 27. She is one year past her reconstruction and has never felt more comfortable in her skin or secure about her health. Sara, welcome to the show!
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Laughing in the Face of Fear
Navigating a breast cancer journey can cause feelings of confusion and fear, all of which are normal. There are healthy ways to cope with the stress caused by these fears, such as mindfulness meditation, support groups or finding a creative outlet. Today’s guest has been through quite a journey over the past decade. Having undergone numerous brain surgeries as a result of her breast cancer metastasizing, actress and comedian Hyla Matthews knows firsthand how important it is to find ways to keep a healthy perspective and is committed to finding way to laugh through her experience. Hyla, welcome to the show!
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The Emotional Impact of Physical Changes
Losing your hair is hard. As with breast surgery, it affects a part of your body often tied to your identity. This can become even more of a challenge when you have young children who have a strong emotional response to a parent's breast cancer diagnosis. Today's guest was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 29, with three young girls at home. Here today to talk about the emotional impact of the physical changes that her body has had to undergo, both for herself and for her family. Emily, welcome to the show!
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The Call I Wasn’t Expecting
Breast density is a measure used to describe the proportion of the different tissues that make up a woman's breasts. It compares the area of the breast and connective tissues seen on a mammogram to the area of fat. Women with dense breasts are four to five times more likely to get breast cancer than women with fatty breasts, but it is also not uncommon to get called back for additional screenings when you have dense breasts, because dense breast tissue makes it more difficult to interpret a mammogram. Today's guest needed an ultrasound multiple years in a row following her annual mammogram, but in 2020, received a call that she was not at all expecting. She had breast cancer. Here today to share her story is Emily's Zarecki. Emily, welcome to the show!
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New Advances for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients
Today, we're speaking with Dr. Neil Vasan, an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology Oncology at Columbia University Medial Center.
Dr. Vasan is a physician scientist who studies how proteins function in breast cancer cell signaling and how treatments impact breast cancer cell signaling, which is the communication within a cell. His research has been published in top scientific journals including Science, Nature Cancer, Cancer Cell, and Cancer Discovery and he's received multiple awards, including being selected as a next gen star of the American Association for Cancer Research.
Today, we're going to be discussing exciting new developments in the treatment of triple negative breast cancer. Dr. Vasan welcome to the show!
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MBC Week – Action and Advocacy
Everyone can make a difference in the life of someone living with this disease by urging elected officials in Washington DC to pass pending legislation that would directly help this community. Today, we're going to be talking about advocacy and why it's so important to alleviate patient burden through robust public policies that recognize both the financial toxicity of treating breast cancer and the systemic hurdles patients must pass through to access their care.
Here today to share her personal story is Stephanie Walker. Stephanie is a registered nurse with close to 40 years of clinical practice experience with the last 15 years working in hospice and end of life care, when she received her MBC diagnosis in 2015. After health issues caused her to leave her work in 2018, she was faced with stark financial realities that MBC patients often encounter.
Through it all, Stephanie learned to be her best advocate and is passionate about teaching other men and women with MBC how to do that too. Stephanie, welcome to the show.
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MBC Week – Financial
Everyone can make a difference in the life of someone living with the disease by donating to breakthrough research. A diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer is devastating, and as hard as it is to hear, metastatic breast cancer cannot be cured today. Unlike breast cancer that remains in the breast or nearby lymph nodes, you can't get rid of all the cancer that is spread to the outer parts of the body.
A major focus of treatment for MBC is maintaining quality of life, which encompasses your overall wellbeing. Your emotional and physical health can affect your quality of life as can concerns about your financial strain caused by living with MBC. Katie Peterson is here today to discuss her story and some of the financial realities of living with metastatic breast cancer, many of which can be far reaching.
Katie, welcome to the show!
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MBC Week – MBC Grant Announcement
The Susan G Komen Metastatic Breast Cancer Collaborative Research Initiative is a first of its kind effort that is bringing together the best and brightest researchers at Duke Cancer Institute and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center to find breakthrough discoveries to end metastatic breast cancer.
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MBC Week – Emotional Impact
Everyone can make a difference in the life of someone living with the disease by donating to breakthrough research. Living with metastatic breast cancer is overwhelming. There's a lot of information to process, emotions to deal with, and a constant balancing act between the reality of dealing with your disease and trying to stay present and live your best life.
Although metastatic breast cancer cannot be cured today, it can be treated. Treatment focuses on extending life and maintaining quality of life and as treatments improve, so does survival. Our guest today is a young mom and is here to share her story of living with metastatic breast cancer and how she holds onto hope for a cure through research.
Ashley, welcome to the show.
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MBC Week – Physical
Everyone can make a difference in the life of someone living with the disease by donating to breakthrough research. Enduring the ongoing treatments necessary when living with metastatic breast cancer can have far reaching physical side effects, including muscle and joint pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting, and nausea. Often things you take for granted, such as walking or even standing can become a challenge.
Luckily, symptom management and supportive care is available, with the aim to prevent or relieve some of these side effects. But the reality is that an MBC diagnosis can often drastically change your day to day life. Here today to share his story, and now he manages his journey with metastatic breast cancer is Kirby Lewis.
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Kristin’s Story: Triple Negative Breast Cancer at 30
People who have their own personal experience with breast cancer often look for ways to give back, to pass on the support that they received during their journey. Today's guest was diagnosed with stage three, triple negative breast cancer at age 30, and is now passionate about being an inspiration to others that are diagnosed. Here to share her story and the ways she is supporting others is Kristin Siskin.
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Breast Cancer and Bone Health: The Patient Perspective
The bones are the most common sites of breast cancer metastases, which can damage your bones. This is an issue that effects over 70% of people living with metastatic breast cancer. Fortunately, there are medications that can strengthen and protect your bones, which can reduce this damage. Here today to share her breast cancer journey and how she protects her bones while living with bone metastases is Kim Crist. Kim, welcome to the show!
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The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bone Health
On today's podcast, we talked to Dr. Fred Singer from American Bone Health to discuss the link between breast cancer and bone health. You will learn about how to assess your risk of bone fractures, how to improve your overall bone health, and the different screenings available to integrate. Obtaining a baseline bone scan coupled with knowing your bone health risks can offer you a plan for maintaining strong, healthy bones, which is important to your overall health Dr Singer, welcome to the show!
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Honoring Mom’s Legacy
Today's guest lost her mother to metastatic breast cancer in 2017. This motivated her to make a major shift in her life. She now dedicates her work to finding the cures for breast cancer and advocating on behalf of the breast cancer community. Here today to share her family story and how she is passionate about carrying on her mother's legacy is Jamie Jones. Jamie, welcome to the show!
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Giving Back After Loss with Nate Adams
Our guest today lost his mom to breast cancer in May of 2012, and now gives back by serving as Director of Learning and Development at Susan G Komen. Here to share his story and to honor his mom's legacy is Nate Adams.
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Cancer, why not me!
Most breast cancers are not related to genes or family history. However, if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, your family members, especially sisters, daughters and mothers may have an increased risk of getting breast cancer. When cancer does affect multiple generations in a family, the impact can be far greater reaching than just the physical symptoms. Today we are joined by a mother/daughter duo to talk to us about their family’s breast cancer journey and how their shared BRCA2 positive gene mutation has impacted their family and their medical decisions. Carolyn and Brianna, welcome to the show!
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Diagnosed at Age 28
It’s often thought that breast cancer only affects women over 40. But, unfortunately, that’s not the case. Breast cancer is rare in young women, but it does happen. And, when a young woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, it can be shocking. At a time in life when most young women are focused solely on family and career, all of a sudden issues of treatment, recovery, and survivorship suddenly take top priority. Alli Coleman was diagnosed at the age of 28, while 2 months post partum, and is here today to share her story. Alli, welcome to the show!
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You Are Not Alone with Sarah Sanders (replay)
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring a wide range of emotions including shock, fear, sadness, and anger. The support of family, friends, and others can be helpful as you go through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond, but many cancer patients and survivors will tell you that despite that support, cancer can be a lonely journey. However, it is important to know that you are not alone. Here to share her story and what she has learned is Sarah Sanders…
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I am a SurviveHER
Adam Walker: [00:00:00] From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. On real pink. We often speak with breast cancer survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer. And we hear…
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Embracing Your Beauty Despite Hair Loss
Adam Walker: [00:00:00] Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Losing your hair is a hard and often emotional part of a breast cancer journey. As with breast surgery, it affects…
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You are Your Own Best Advocate
Adam Walker: [00:00:00] From Susan G Komen, this is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Grew up with the philosophy that the relationship between a patient and healthcare provider was very straightforward. The patient presented…
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Intimacy After Surgery
[00:00:00] Adam Walker: [00:00:00] From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Sex and intimacy can be difficult for many women after breast cancer. You may feel your body has betrayed…
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Saying yes to support isn’t easy
Adam Walker (00:03):From Susan G Komen, this is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room, Adam Walker (00:16):A breast cancer diagnosis. Isn’t easy, it’s difficult for the person diagnosed and for the loved ones of that…
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Supporting a Loved One with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Michael Allio – Rebroadcast
Transcript Adam: [00:07] From Susan G Komen, this is Real Pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Having a family member or friend with metastatic breast cancer is challenging. For people who love and care for the…
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A Healthcare Hero’s Journey in Keeping Up with Cancer Care
Adam Walker (00:00):Support for the Real Pink podcast comes from Pfizer’s Get It Done initiative. Cancer screenings and follow-up appointments had decreased significantly due to COVID-19, which is why Pfizer created Get It Done, which aims to empower cancer survivors to speak with their doctors and keep their cancer screenings and follow-up appointments by providing…
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Breast Cancer in Men
Adam Walker (00:00):This program has been made possible through the support of an independent grant from Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. 16 year old, Isabel…
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HER2-positive Breast Cancer: What You Should Know
Dr. Ian Krop is Associate Chief of the Division of Breast Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute & Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He is also a Komen Scholar.
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Becoming a Badass Advocate
Adam Walker (00:00):This program has been made possible through the support of an independent grant from Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. Adam Walker (00:09):From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Adam Walker…
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Addressing Disparities Through Action
Adam Walker (00:00):This program has been made possible through the support of an independent grant from Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. Adam Walker (00:09):From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Adam Walker…
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Dealing with the death of a parent and celebrating life
Adam Walker (00:00):This program has been made possible through the support of an independent grant from Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. Adam Walker (00:09):From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Adam Walker…
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Navigating participation in clinical trials
Adam Walker (00:00):This program has been made possible through the support of an independent grant from Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. From Susan G Komen. This is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Over the past 40…
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Feeling Empowered Through Genetic Testing
On last week’s episode, Ashely Dedmon shared her experiences as a young caregiver and how it impacted how she approached her own health. Today we are going to continue our conversation with Ashley to talk about the impact of being born into three generations of women affected by breast cancer, losing her mother to the disease and watching her father battle prostate cancer shortly thereafter. Ashley was 22 years old and fearful that she was next. It was then that she took matters into her own hands and immediately reached out to her doctors, who suggested genetic counseling and screening for the BRCA genetic mutation. Today we’ll learn from Ashley what those tests found, what she did next, and how it changed the course of her life
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The Impact of Being a Young Caregiver
Caregiving can be a difficult and very personal role on many levels. Assisting a loved one through their cancer diagnosis, helping with daily activities, providing support and helping to make treatment decisions may all be a part of the responsibilities. When young adults are the caregiver taking care of a parent, they face many unique challenges, such as having more duties to juggle, starting their own families or careers and coming to terms with taking care of someone who has always taken care of them. Today’s guest Ashley Dedmon supported both of her parents in their cancer journeys and is here today to speak about the challenges and blessings of that time in her life, as well as how it impacted how she approached her own health.
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Coloring Over Cancer
Navigating a breast cancer journey can cause feelings of confusion and fear, all of which are normal. There are healthy ways to cope with the stress caused by these fears, such as mindfulness meditation, support groups or finding a creative outlet. Today’s guest has beat cancer not once, but twice! As a survivor of Lymphoma of the brain as well as breast cancer, Julia Evans knows firsthand how important it is to find ways to keep the faith and is committed to encouraging, educating and empowering those in the fight through her nonprofit, Coloring Over Cancer.
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Balancing It All
Christine George is a marketing professional, real estate enthusiast, Mom, wife and yogi. She oversees all marketing related activities for Leading Edge Real Estate, and is also responsible for leading the business planning process for agents which includes business planning strategies, coaching and accountability. Her passion is her yoga practice and her blog, BelieveInBalance in which she…
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Advocating to Address Barriers
Adam Walker (00:03):From Susan G Komen, this is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Susan G Komen has long worked to mobilize our communities to take action. Susan G Komen center for public policy serves…
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Faith Through Fire
Adam Walker (00:03):From Susan G Komen, this is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room. Adam Walker (00:14):A breast cancer diagnosis can bring a wide range of emotions, including shock, fear, sadness, and anger, the support…
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Living With Inflammatory Breast Cancer
Episode Transcript: Adam Walker (00:03):From Susan G Komen, this is real pink, a podcast exploring real stories, struggles, and triumphs related to breast cancer. We’re taking the conversation from the doctor’s office to your living room about one to 5% of breast cancers in the U S are inflammatory breast cancer. This is an aggressive…
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I am my Mother’s Daughter
Most breast cancers are not related to genes or family history. However, if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, your family members, especially sisters, daughters and mothers may have an increased risk of getting breast cancer. When cancer does affect multiple generations in a family, the impact can be far greater reaching than just…
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How CDK4/6 Inhibitors Made a Comeback
Sometimes pre-clinical studies show that a drug has a good chance of helping patients, but when the drug is tested on patients, it doesn’t work as expected. Today, we are talking to Dr. Shom Goel, Group Leader and Medical Oncologist at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the University of Melbourne, in Australia & Komen-funded…
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How Researcher Perseverance Prevails in the Face of Challenges
Many scientific researchers face challenges in their work and the Covid-19 pandemic has only added to these challenges, but researchers are incredibly resilient and continue to push forward because they know their work will help patients and improve lives. Today, we are talking to Dr. Jennifer Guerriero, Instructor in Medicine and the Director of the…
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Normalizing Breast Cancer Conversations with Michael Cox
In the U.S today, Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age, in later stages, with more aggressive types and have a lower 5-year survival rate. These disparities aren’t just caused by health issues but also by social injustice—unequal access to health care, a lack of diversity in…
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Warning Signs of Breast Cancer Recurrence with Karen Sock
Breast cancer, unfortunately, can come back even if doctors believe the chances are low. We don’t know why breast cancer recurs or when it will – it could be as soon as a few years after you’ve completed treatment, or it can be 20 years later. As a breast cancer survivor, you can stay in…
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My Breast Cancer Story with Betsey Johnson (100th Episode!)
Our guest today knows first hand how important it is to stay on top of your breast health. Fashion designer Betsey Johnson was diagnosed with breast cancer 21 years ago and is here to share her story. Today is our 100th episode of Real Pink and we’d like to take this opportunity to thank all…
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Embracing Change with Valencia McClure
Embracing Change with Valencia McClure About Valencia Following a very successful career in Corporate America, Valencia McClure, founder of The Artistry Of Essential Oils, is living proof that natural wellness is possible even amid seemingly impossible situations.After being diagnosed with cancer in 2015, her search for positive results and more natural healings was a difficult…
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Knowing and Reducing Breast Cancer Risk with Dr. April Spencer
Everyone is at risk of breast cancer, but some of us are at higher risk than others. We know that black women are about 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women. These disparities are unacceptable. Your race and where you live should not determine whether you live. Here today to help…
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The Evolution of Biosimilars as a Cancer Treatment with Andrew Spiegel
Cancer treatment has come a long way over the years. At the forefront of these medical advances are therapies known as “biologics.” Today I am speaking with Andrew Spiegel from the Global Colon Cancer Association to talk about biosimilars in cancer treatment and how he has used his voice in patient-centered policy and other discussions…
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Cancer’s Hidden Blessings with Jennifer Humphries
About 4 percent of all breast cancers diagnosed in the U.S. occur in women under 40. Our guest today was only 25 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was newly married and life had yet to really begin for her and her husband, yet they immediately found themselves dealing with issues…
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Talking to Your Doctor with Samantha Harris (Rebroadcast)
Talking openly with your doctor is one of the best ways to feel good about your breast cancer treatment decisions. But, sometimes, talking with a doctor can be overwhelming, confusing and create more questions than answers. Samantha Harris joins the show today to help us learn how to ask the right questions, ensure that we…
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Oh The Places You’ll Go Fighting Cancer with Cara Sapida
The word “cancer” can bring about sudden and intense emotions. You may have feelings like fear, anger, frustration, depression and even helplessness. These emotions are normal. No one can tell you how to feel, how not to feel or to change the way you feel. Allowing yourself to express your emotions can help you begin…
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Metastatic Breast Cancer – A Future Full of Hope with Janet Robinson
It is estimated there are more than 168,000 women living with metastatic breast cancer in the U.S. in 2020. Janet Robinson is one of these. She was diagnosed 5 years ago with breast cancer after discovering a dent in her left breast. She has since had 2 recurrences and 2 years ago she was diagnosed…
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The Power of Positivity with Cinda Paynter
As hard as it may be to hear, metastatic breast cancer can not be cured today. However, metastatic breast cancer can be treated, with a focus on extending and improving quality of life. The journey can be a roller coaster and today’s guest has learned how to endure the highs and lows with balance, grit,…
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Anyone Can Get Breast Cancer with Susan Brown
One case of breast cancer is diagnosed in the U.S every two minutes. Yet, despite these statistics, no one is ever truly prepared to receive a breast cancer diagnosis and many feel completely blindsided by it. Susan Brown, Senior Director of Health Information and Publications at Susan G. Komen shares the story of her recent…
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Breast Cancer, No Longer Your Grandmother’s Disease with Micha Logan
Micha Logan was enjoying her young 30’s and a career as a radio host when unexpectedly, her doctor found a lump at an annual exam. Micha joins today’s episode to share wisdom and insight resulting from her breast cancer journey. About Micha In May of 2013, at the age of 31, my life changed forever.…
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Advocating for Diverse Representation in Clinical Trials with Ricki Fairley
Clinical trials test the safety and benefits of new treatments as well as new combinations (or new doses) of standard treatments. They can also study other parts of care including risk reduction, diagnosis and screening. People volunteer to take part in clinical trials and those who join help further the knowledge base that helps improve…
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Breast Cancer, Black Women, and Driving Better Outcomes with Athena Jones
Athena Jones joins the podcast to share her experience as a two-time breast cancer survivor currently researching the drivers of and solutions for more equitable breast cancer outcomes across the country. Athena is a national correspondent for CNN and has reported extensively on race relations and racial disparities for nearly a decade. About Athena Athena…
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How Technology Can Help Address Health Disparities with Dr. Sindhu Pandit
About Sindhu Dr. Sindhu Pandit, is a Clinical Leader on the Global Healthcare and Life Sciences team at Salesforce. Most recently, Dr. Pandit was a Medical Director at Oschner Health System where she had clinical responsibilities in an acute inpatient rehabilitation unit, a multidisciplinary multiple sclerosis clinic, and an outpatient clinical role in a general…
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Getting the Most From a Telehealth Appointment with Erica Kuhn
Telehealth – or the ability to have an appointment with a medical provider over the phone of computer – has historically been limited to certain conditions and for certain types of appointments. But in response to COVID-19, telehealth is becoming more widely adopted. Erica Kuhn shares how to get the most out of telehealth on…
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When Pink is a Color, Not a Ribbon with Victoria Shaw
PINK’: The story behind Dolly Parton, Monica, Jordin Sparks, Rita Wilson and Sara Evans song collaboration As a song writer, Victoria Shaw often finds inspiration in her everyday life. And that’s exactly what happened with the new song “PINK”. After seeing a public service announcement for Susan G. Komen®, she thought to herself: “someday pink will just be another color and we won’t have to do this anymore.” The…
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Health Disparities, Covid-19 and Breast Cancer with Dr. Kim Johnson- Part II
Dr. Kim Johnson, Senior Director, African American Health Equity Initiative at Susan G. Komen, joins us in a two-part conversation about health equity and how we can address health disparities in our communities. Meet Dr. Johnson Dr. Kim M. Johnson is the Senior Director of the African American Health Equity Initiative at Susan G. Komen.…
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Health Disparities, Covid-19 and Breast Cancer with Dr. Kim Johnson- Part I
Dr. Kim Johnson, Senior Director, African American Health Equity Initiative at Susan G. Komen, joins us in a two-part conversation about health equity and how we can address health disparities in our communities. Meet Dr. Johnson Dr. Kim M. Johnson is the Senior Director of the African American Health Equity Initiative at Susan G. Komen.…
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Future of MBC Therapy – Hope for Better Treatment with Dr. Ben Ho Park
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about metastatic breast cancer (MBC) as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. To turn MBC awareness into action, visit: https://mbc.komen.org/ Meet Dr. Park Dr. Ben Ho Park, M.D., Ph.D. is the Donna S. Hall…
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Clinical Trials from a Patient Perspective with Sheila McGlown
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about metastatic breast cancer (MBC) as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. To turn MBC awareness into action, visit: https://mbc.komen.org/ and contact your local lawmakers by texting MBC to 40649. Meet Sheila Sheila…
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Navigating MBC Treatment with Brenda Day
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about metastatic breast cancer (MBC) as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. To turn MBC awareness into action, visit: https://mbc.komen.org/ and contact your local lawmakers by texting MBC to 40649. Meet Brenda Brenda…
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Putting the Patient at the Center of Research with Dr. Benjamin Vincent
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about metastatic breast cancer (MBC) as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the US alThis week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about metastatic breast cancer (MBC) as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the US alone, MBC is…
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The Journey From Early-Stage Diagnosis to MBC with Joy Jenrette
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about metastatic breast cancer (MBC) as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. To turn MBC awareness into action, visit: https://mbc.komen.org/ and contact your local lawmakers by texting “MBC” to 40649. Meet Joy On…
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My Personal Breast Cancer Story with Paula Schneider
Every 13 minutes, one woman will lose her life to breast cancer. That is unacceptable. As we enter into National Breast Cancer Awareness month, Paula Schneider shares her personal breast cancer story. About Paula Paula Schneider is president and CEO of Susan G. Komen®, responsible for the strategic direction and day-to-day operation of Komen’s research,…
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The Emotional Journey of a Caregiver with Jordan Rathkopf
Meet Jordan Jordan Rathkopf is a husband and a father. His wife, Anna, was diagnosed with breast cancer, after finding a lump on her 37th birthday. Anna documented her journey through the “HER2: An intimate breast cancer experience” photography project to help process the experience and to raise awareness of the specific challenges younger people…
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Lessons Learned Surviving Breast Cancer with Anna Rathkopf
Meet Anna Anna Rathkopf felt the lump on her 37th birthday. Nearly ten days later, she received a breast cancer diagnosis. She underwent surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and takes a daily pill for ten years to slow her body’s estrogen production. She has documented her journey through the “HER2: An intimate breast cancer experience” photography project…
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Breast Cancer Screenings During a Pandemic with Laurel Pointer
For many people, the thought of going anywhere, especially a medical office, during the current pandemic can create a feeling of uneasiness and concern. This is certainly normal, however we would like to reassure our listeners that there is no reason to delay mammograms if your local imaging centers are open and your state re-opening…
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Mental Health Impact of Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Tori Geib
While levels of support continue to improve, MBC patients and care partners both recognize that there is often a need for even MORE support to be given. A percentage of people living with MBC say that their family and friends don’t understand how their metastatic breast cancer has changed them emotionally and physically, especially during…
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What Care Partners Wish They Knew When a Family/Friend was Diagnosed with MBC with Janice and Rex Cowden
Studies show that there is a disconnect between the type of support MBC patients believe they need vs. what care partner believes that patients need. Because of this, communication is of the utmost importance. Meet Janice and Rex Rex is a Midwesterner; born and raised near Lafayette, Indiana. Following high school graduation, he enlisted in…
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How to Navigate Sex Through Cancer with Dr. Chery Hysjulien
After breast cancer, talking with your partner about sex may be hard. Here today to talk about how to navigate sex through cancer and all the big feelings that can go along with it is Dr. Chery Hysjulien About Dr. Hysjulien Cheryl A Hysjulien RN, PsyD Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in Health Psychology with further…
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How Breast Cancer Affects Sexual Health with Dr. Shelby Terstriep
Here today to talk about the ways that breast cancer can affect sexual health and what to do about it is Dr. Shelby Terstriep. About Dr. Terstriep Dr. Terstriep is quadruple boarded in internal medicine, hematology, oncology and palliative medicine and is a clinical associate professor at the University of North Dakota. Dr. Terstriep graduated from…
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Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Rachal Pecoraro
Today, it’s estimated that at least 168,000 people in the U.S. have Stage IV, or metastatic, breast cancer. Although metastatic breast cancer currently cannot be cured, it can still be treated. About Rachel I am 38 years old, and have been happily married for 15 yrs., and we have a daughter who turned 4 in…
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It’s Ok To Not Be Ok with Stephanie Carroll
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring on a wide range of emotions including shock, fear, sadness, anger and grief. Metastatic breast cancer can also bring with it a higher level of anxiety and depression. These feelings are all normal. Here today to share the unique perspective that she has as a mental health professional who…
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Thriving Sexually During and After Breast Cancer with Dr. Lyndsey Harper
On today’s episode, we are going to talk about an important topic that is not often talked about – sexual health during and after a breast cancer diagnosis. Sex and intimacy can be difficult for most women after a diagnosis and can cause unique problems, from pain and fatigue to feeling detached or disconnected from…
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Overcoming Adversity with Leecy Fink
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can turn your world upside down. It is normal to feel fear of the unknown and of not knowing what the future holds. Many of the guests on the Real Pink podcast have shared that staying in the present, focusing only on what you can control and believing that you…
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Healthy Living and Breast Cancer Risk with Kristen Keenan
Some healthy lifestyle choices may lower your risk of getting breast cancer. Learn what you can do to improve your health in this week’s episode. We all know that we should try to live a healthy lifestyle, but exactly how do we go about doing that? Especially during a pandemic? Today we will answer those…
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You Are Not Alone with Sarah Sanders
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring a wide range of emotions including shock, fear, sadness, and anger. The support of family, friends, and others can be helpful as you go through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond, but many cancer patients and survivors will tell you that despite that support, cancer can be a lonely journey. However,…
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Breast Cancer Patients Share their Unique Journeys to Becoming Informed and Empowered with Janet Jordan and Bridgett Spillers
Breast cancer is not a one-size-fits-all disease – each patient’s experiences, perspectives, and diagnoses are uniquely personal. Understanding this can help empower breast cancer patients to educate themselves and ask questions in order to equip themselves for conversations with their doctors about treatment plans. Here to share their stories and what information was most helpful…
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Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Facts vs. Fiction with Dr. Erika Hamilton (from Sarah Cannon)
Breast cancer is not one type of disease but many. The type of breast cancer affects prognosis and care options. TNBC is an aggressive type of breast cancer and Dr. Erika Hamilton (from Sarah Cannon) will clarify misconceptions about TNBC and address key questions, like who is at greatest risk for TNBC and what are…
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Remembering Mom on Father’s Day with Gary and Kyla Thompson
On the morning of October 21, 2014, everything changed for the Thompson family. At the ages of 15 (Taylor), 13 (Kyla) and 10 (Katelyn), these kids no longer had their mom, Maureen. Gary no longer had his wife of 25 years. 11 years earlier Maureen had been diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant with their…
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Breast Cancer Through the Eyes of a Child with Raphael Alejandro
When someone is diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s scary for them and everyone around them. The emotions involved can seem even more heightened to a child who has to watch their parent go through a diagnosis or treatment. Raphael Alejandro joins the podcast to share his family’s story…. About Raphael Raphael Alejandro brings his comedic timing…
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Talking to Your Kids About Breast Cancer with Caprice Massey
Deciding when and how much to tell your children about your breast cancer diagnosis can be difficult to navigate. As a parent, your initial instinct may be to protect them from the realities of your diagnosis and treatment, but sharing age-appropriate information can be helpful and healing and can allow you to support each other…
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The Power of Community with Susie Christianson
It takes a village to balance the rigors of treatment with life obligations. How family, friends, and community can come together to help those going through a cancer diagnosis. Today on Real Pink, we have the honor of Susie Christianson sharing her story. About Susie Susie Christianson is the Chief Wavemaker of Shining Sprouts, wherein…
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Living Your Healthiest Life with Samantha Harris
In these uncertain times when so many people around the world are anxious and struggling with unknowns, staying positive and focusing on emotional health is vital. Today on Real Pink, we have the honor of welcoming back a very special guest to the show. Emmy-winning TV host, author, certified health coach & trainer, cancer survivor…
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Special Episode: Surviving COVID-19 while Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Kristin Harris
Kristin Harris is living with metastatic breast cancer – and she also is a COVID19 survivor. In this special episode, she joins the podcast to share her story. About Kristin Pink ribbons have been a thread of Kristin Harris’s story for as long as she can remember. Her mother was first diagnosed with breast cancer…
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Growing a Family after Breast Cancer Treatment with Tammy Myers
Breast cancer is rare in young women – fewer than 5 percent of breast cancers diagnosed in the U.S. occur in women under 40. But when they are, they often add complexity surrounding fertility and starting or growing families. Here to share the story of how she is trying to expand her family following breast…
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Harnessing the Power of the Immune System with Dr. Adam Soloff
Researchers are working to develop new, more effective treatments for breast cancer. Dr. Adam Soloff joins the podcast to share his work on vaccines, including research funded by Susan G. Komen. This is part two of Dr. Soloff’s interview. About Dr. Soloff Dr. Soloff is a Susan G. Komen career catalyst researcher and the Assistant…
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Demystifying the World of Viruses and Vaccines with Dr. Adam Soloff
What actually is a virus? What should people know about viruses? What about mutations? And how do vaccines work? There has been a lot of media speculation surrounding these questions especially in regards to COVID-19. Dr. Adam Soloff joins the podcast to shed light on these topics and share his perspective as a Susan G.…
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Managing Isolation During a Pandemic with Marissa Fors
Undue stress may be experienced by anyone during this pandemic, especially by those more vulnerable to COVID-19. Komen’s Breast Care Helpline can help provide information, social support and help with coping strategies related to anxiety or concerns during these uncertain times. Here to share some of the most common questions and concerns across the breast…
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It’s Time to End This Disease. Now. with Leslie Mullins
Every 13 minutes, someone in the U.S. loses their life to breast cancer. That’s 115 families every day that loses a mom or dad or daughter. Countless moments big and small, that shape us, guide us – all lost. That’s simply unacceptable. Susan G. Komen is working to create a future where no one loses…
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Prioritizing Your Health with Summer Watson
When you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, your overall health and well being becomes a top priority, particularly while you are undergoing treatment. Here to share the health journey that she embarked on and how it has made all the difference is…..Summer Watson, classical crossover artist. About Summer It’s very rare to encounter a singing…
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Special Episode: Prioritizing safety and health during COVID-19 with Susan Brown
During this time of uncertainty, it is important for breast care patients and survivors to minimize risk during COVID-19. Oncology nurse Susan Brown offers tips on how to prioritize safety and protect physical and mental health. About Susan Susan Brown, M.S., R.N. Senior Director, Education & Patient Support Susan has been with Susan G. Komen®…
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What to Say, And What Not to Say, with Dana Manciagli
When someone has breast cancer, it is scary for them – and for you! What can you do to really help? What should you say? Is it better to just listen? Here to shed some light on how to best support those who are affected by breast cancer is Dana Manciagli. About Dana Dana Manciagli…
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MTP – The Beginning of a Movement with Nancy Brinker
Susan G. Komen founder Nancy Brinker talks about how it all began and the impact the organization has had on breast cancer. Nancy Goodman Brinker is the founder of The Promise Fund and Susan G. Komen, an organization named after her only sister, Susan, who died from breast cancer in 1980 at age 36. Brinker…
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Being an Advocate for a Loved One with Earlina Green
About Earlina Earlina Green Hamilton is a speaker, consultant, and author of The Beginner’s Guide to Finding Your Brave and 7 Tips for Breaking Into The World of Sports. Before beginning her writing and speaking career, Green was a leading sports executive for professional NBA teams Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks. She has given…
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Communicating with Your Health Care team with Cheryl Jernigan
Talking openly with your doctor is one of the best ways to feel good about your breast cancer treatment decisions. But, sometimes, talking with a doctor can be overwhelming, confusing and create more questions than answers. Do you understand the information you’re getting from your doctor? Do you know what questions to ask? About Cheryl…
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Fact vs. Fiction– Debunking Breast Cancer Myths with Dr. Amy Patel
The key to making important decisions about your health is reliable information and often when talking about breast cancer it is hard to distinguish between good information and the myths. Today we’d like to debunk some common myths about breast cancer to empower listeners to take charge of their health and to make the best…
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Listening to Your Body with Chaunte Lowe
About Chaunte Chaunté Lowe is an American high jumper and a four-time Olympian. She holds the American record in the women’s high jump in both outdoor and indoor categories. She is a mom of three, and an advocate for knowing your body. Follow Chaunte on Instagram here. Transcript Adam: (00:00) My guest on the show…
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The Power of Sharing with Kwanza Jones
In recognition of Black History Month, we’ll be talking about unique breast cancer challenges within the African American community. If you’ve ever received a breast cancer diagnosis, or you know someone who is experiencing breast cancer, you know that it can also be hard to ask for help, even when you really need it. However,…
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Creating Lasting Change through Public Policy Advocacy with Mary Boyd and Neel Stallings
It takes a special person or people to mobilize a nationwide movement, creating a coalition of supporters and attract positive media attention. please help me welcome Mary Boyd and Neel Stallings, passionate educators and advocates that won’t stop until there is a world without breast cancer. About Mary Boyd (aka Lucy) Professional experience as a…
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Yes, Men Get Breast Cancer Too with Wayne Dornan
Although uncommon, men are also diagnosed with breast cancer. It’s estimated there will be 2,670 new cases of invasive breast cancer among men in the U.S. this year alone; and often, men are diagnosed at later stages than women. To help us understand the facts behind male breast cancer, we’re speaking with breast cancer survivor,…
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Advice from Women Who Have Personal Experience with Their Own Breast Cancer Journey with Melissa Berry
Many of our guests on Real Pink are have been diagnosed with breast cancer so our audience has learned about the fear, confusion, anxiety of a breast cancer diagnosis. But, our audience has also told us that they have been helped by hearing real-life stories from other survivors and sharing in their experience. And, I…
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Clinical Trials for People with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Dr. Tatiana Prowell
If someone you love or care for has been diagnosed with a life threatening illness, like breast cancer, and you are now thrown into a new role to help support them as they fight to survive, it can be overwhelming. It is not an easy task, by any means. And it’s a learning process. But…
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Does Being Obese Cause Breast Cancer? with Dr. Elizabeth Wellberg (More Than Pink Special Episode)
Dr. Elizabeth Wellberg, Assistant Professor, University of Colorado School of Medicine’s Department of Pathology, Komen Scholar Obesity affects more than 35 percent of women in the Unites States. Dr. Liz Welberg’s groundbreaking new study, funded by Susan G. Komen, found that women with obesity are more likely to experience a recurrence of breast cancer once…
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Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Karen Durham (More Than Pink Special Episode)
Karen Durham, Advocate In Science Karen was an integral member of the Komen family, and we are proud to share this special episode. She will be dearly missed. “I have a daughter. And I don’t want my daughter or anyone else’s daughter or son to ever hear the words, ‘You have breast cancer’.” ~Karen Durham…
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Warning Signs of Breast Cancer: It’s Not Just a Lump with Dr. April Spencer
If someone you love or care for has been diagnosed with a life threatening illness, like breast cancer, and you are now thrown into a new role to help support them as they fight to survive, it can be overwhelming. It is not an easy task, by any means. And it’s a learning process. But…
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How to Support Someone with Breast Cancer with Jade Kendle
If someone you love or care for has been diagnosed with a life threatening illness, like breast cancer, and you are now thrown into a new role to help support them as they fight to survive, it can be overwhelming. It is not an easy task, by any means. And it’s a learning process. But…
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How My Family History Inspired Me to Know My “Girls” with Charmaine Johnise
Even though you cannot change your genetic makeup, knowing your family health history may help you understand your personal breast cancer risk. Today, we’ll learn about how to better understand your family history, how that may impact your risk of breast cancer, and how to make better informed choices. We’re going to help empower you…
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Going Flat after Mastectomy with Katrin van Dam
For women facing mastectomy (the surgical removal of the entire breast), one of the biggest decisions is whether or not to undergo breast reconstruction. Many women choose either to get implants or to have an autologous tissue transfer — a procedure that relocates tissue from another part of the woman’s body to create a replacement…
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Living with Breast Cancer with Janet St. James
Today, we’re going to talk about metastatic breast cancer, or Stage IV breast cancer. Metastatic breast cancer is breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other organs in the body – most often the bones, lungs, liver or brain. Although metastatic breast cancer is not currently curable, it can be treated. Today, it’s…
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Emerging Areas of Research and Treatment with Josh Neman
Researchers are constantly searching for new and better ways to treat breast cancer. Advances over the last 40 years have increased survival and improved the quality of life for people diagnosed with breast cancer.And, right now, there are promising new treatments and targeted therapies being developed. About Dr. Neman is an Assistant Professor of Neurological…
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Advice from My Personal Breast Cancer Journey with Monique Robinson
In this episode special guest Monique Robinson shares real life stories and experiences as a patient and lessons learned. About Monique Monique is an Afro-Latinx attorney, avid traveler and two-time breast cancer survivor. She lives with her husband and two dogs in Southern California. She hopes to be a resource to other young women diagnosed…
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Clinical Trials May Be Your Best Option with Dr. Kathy Miller
Over the past 40 years, breast cancer treatment has greatly improved due to lessons learned through clinical trials. But for many people, the idea of clinical trials may seem daunting or risky. Today, we’ll learn the truth about clinical trials, and how to find options that best meet your needs. About Kathy Dr. Kathy D.…
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Helping Yourself Through Healthy Living with Wendy Kozel
A healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, including breast cancer survivors. Breast cancer survivors can benefit from the same healthy diet and moderate exercise routine recommended for everyone. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, and being physically active is one of the best things you can do for your health – both your mental and physical health. …
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What Happens When Your Breast Cancer Treatment Ends with Pam Kohl
Most people diagnosed with breast cancer will never have a breast cancer recurrence – the return of breast cancer. However, everyone who has had breast cancer is at risk of recurrence. If you are diagnosed with a recurrence, it’s not your fault. You did nothing to cause the recurrence. And, sometimes, when breast cancer recurs,…
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Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Jerri Johnson
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about breast cancer that hides in the shadows: metastatic breast cancer (MBC). In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. This special episode, featuring Kelly Shanahan, is part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About Jerri Jerri is an operations executive at…
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Only Research Will Find New Treatments for MBC with Kelly Shanahan
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about breast cancer that hides in the shadows: metastatic breast cancer (MBC). In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. This special episode, featuring Kelly Shanahan, is part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About Kelly In 2008, Kelly Shanahan had everything…
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Emerging Areas of Treatment with Dr. Donald McDonnell
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about breast cancer that hides in the shadows: metastatic breast cancer (MBC). In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. This special episode, featuring Dr. Donald McDonnell, is part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About Dr. McDonnell Donald P. McDonnell, Ph.D.,…
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When Breast Cancer Hides in Plain Sight with Lynda Weatherby
This week on Real Pink we are hosting daily conversations about breast cancer that hides in the shadows: metastatic breast cancer (MBC). In the US alone, MBC is expected to kill 42,000 people. This special episode, featuring Lynda Weatherby, is part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. About Lynda Lynda Weatherby is living with metastatic…
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What’s Your Family History? with Susan M. Domchek, MD
Even though you cannot change your genetic makeup, knowing your family health history can help you reduce your risk of developing any kind of health concerns. Today, we’ll learn about how to better understand your risk of breast cancer, how to talk with your doctor and how to make better informed choices. We’re going to…
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Breast Cancer is Unacceptable with Paula Schneider
Every 13 minutes, one woman will lose her life to breast cancer. That is unacceptable. As we enter into National Breast Cancer Awareness month, Real Pink speaks to those on the front lines in the fight against breast cancer and those touched by this devastating disease. About Paula Paula Schneider is president and CEO of…
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Becoming a Change Agent through Public Policy Advocacy with Jamie Jones
Last month, more than 250 breast cancer patients, survivors and advocates representing Susan G. Komen® traveled to the nation’s capital to call on federal legislators with one voice and ask them to support funding and policies that improve the lives of those impacted by breast cancer. This annual Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., included visits…
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Supporting a Loved One with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Michael Allio
About Michael It’s TRUE when they say that life could never prepare you enough for a cancer diagnosis. This was especially true for Laura and Michael Allio After being together for nearly 10 years, college sweethearts Laura and Michael Allio decided to tie the knot in 2012. Their lives appeared to be on the right…
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When you Don’t Have the Words with Molly Grantham
Many of our listeners here at Real Pink are breast cancer survivors, and they know first-hand the fear, confusion, anxiety of a breast cancer diagnosis. In this episode, we guest Molly Grantham shares insights on answering the questions: “What can you do to really help? What should you say? Is it better to just listen?”…
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Everyone Deserves To Grow Up With a Mom with Kyla Thompson
In this episode, guest host Suzanne Stone of the More Than Pink podcast chats with Kyla Thompson, founder of #pinkkids about losing her mom to breast cancer. “It’s not just about changing the future, but changing the present, and creating an online space where the children of moms with breast cancer can connect and not…
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Find Your Fierce with Emily Poeschl
Many of us are searching for ways to lead and create the positive change the world needs right now. While the problems of the world are too great to solve alone, there is no challenge we cannot tackle together. On today’s episode, Emily Poeschl joins the podcast to discuss “finding your fierce,” and being a…
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Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer with Carol Smith
Today, it’s estimated that at least 154,000 people in the U.S. have Stage IV, or metastatic, breast cancer. Although metastatic breast cancer currently cannot be cured, it can still be treated – focusing on living a longer, healthier life with breast cancer. In this episode, Carol Smith shares her story of living with MBC. About…
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Talking to Your Doctor with Dr. Reshma Jagsi
Clear and honest communication with your physician can help you both make smart choices about your health. As a patient, you are not powerless when it comes to effective communication – both in the exam room and after you leave the doctor’s office. There are things you can (and should) do to ensure your voice…
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How a Breast Cancer Diagnosis Affects Your Mental Health with Abigail (Abbie) Letts O’Brien
Everyone affected by breast cancer knows the physical hardship it can bring. What’s less commonly talked about, but also important, is how breast cancer affects patients’ and survivors’ mental health. The rigors of treatment breast cancer treatment — while life-saving — are difficult, leaving many women depressed, anxious, or feeling alone. From anxiety about the…
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Managing Side Effects and Supportive Care with Dr. Lisa Newman
In this episode, Dr. Lisa Newman, an internationally renowned breast surgeon and researcher, shares insight on how to manage side effects caused by breast cancer and breast cancer treatment itself. About Dr. Newman A New York City native, Dr. Newman received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Harvard University in 1981, a medical degree in…
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Living with Breast Cancer with Jamil Rivers
It’s estimated that at least 154,000 people in the U.S. have Stage IV, or metastatic, breast cancer. Although metastatic breast cancer currently cannot be cured, it can still be treated, with most therapies focusing on living a longer, healthier life with breast cancer. About Jamil In this episode, Jamil Rivers shares her story of living…
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Asking for What You Need with Sandy Finestone
A breast cancer journey can bring a wide range of emotions including shock, fear, sadness, and anger. Social and emotion support can be helpful as you go through diagnosis, treatment and beyond. In this episode, Sandy Finestone joins the podcast to discuss the social services and support groups available for those diagnosed with breast cancer.…
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The Power of Community with Titus O’Neil
It takes a village to balance the rigors of breast cancer treatment with the obligations of life. Knowing how to support as family and friends, and connecting with others with similar experiences can be a helpful and practical tool. In this episode, Titus O’Neil shares the story of supporting his grandmother through her journey with…
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Lessons Learned Surviving Breast Cancer with Kikkan Randall
On Real Pink, we often speak with breast cancer survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer, and we hear stories about the fear, confusion and the anxiety that a breast cancer diagnosis can cause. But, I have also heard from many of the men and women listening to Real Pink, that they have been…
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What’s Your Family History? with Dr. Robina Smith
Even though you cannot change your genetic makeup, knowing your family health history may help you understand your personal risk of developing any kind of health concerns. Today, we’ll learn about how to better understand your family history, and how that may impact your risk factors. We will also talk about how to talk with…
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Prioritizing Your Health with Shaun Robinson
Women tend to take care of everyone else before taking care of themselves. Women can do it all—own businesses while having kids, run marathons, make family decisions, and earn degrees. And because women are often busy taking care of everyone else, they tend to put their own health last. In this episode, Shaun Robinson, an…
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What to Say and What Not to Say with Heidi Floyd
When someone has breast cancer it's scary for them - and for you! What can you do to really help? What should you say? Is it better to just listen? There are as many ways of being a good co-survivor as there are people! The qualifications? A willingness to be yourself and be present.
Facts vs. Fiction with Dr. Dennis Holmes
Today on the show we’re talking about factors that affect your risk for breast cancer. Some factors affect breast cancer risk a great deal and others only a small amount. Understanding the factors affecting your risk can help you work with your healthcare provider to develop a breast cancer screening plan that’s right for you.…
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Breast Cancer is Not Just for Those Over 40 with Nikia Hammonds-Blakely
It’s often thought that breast cancer only affects women over 40. But, unfortunately, that’s not the case. Breast cancer is rare in young women, but it does happen. And, when a young woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, it can be shocking. At a time in life when most young women are focused on family…
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Talking to Your Doctor with Samantha Harris
Talking openly with your doctor is one of the best ways to feel good about your breast cancer treatment decisions. But, sometimes, talking with a doctor can be overwhelming, confusing and create more questions than answers. Samantha Harris joins the show today to help us learn how to ask the right questions, ensure that we…
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More Than Pink: What is Natural After Breast Cancer? with Dr. Christine Fisher
Dr. Christine Fisher, Plastic Surgeon Getting back to feeling whole is a vital part of breast cancer recovery. Having to lose one or more breasts during the treatment phase is not just physically taxing, it can scar mentally forever. Dr. Fisher and her team work with patients to change that. Dr. Christine Fisher is a…
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More Than Pink: Becoming Whole Again with Dr. Elisabeth Potter
Dr. Elisabeth Potter, Plastic Surgeon – Breast Reconstruction When it’s time for reconstructive surgery, there are so many options and opportunities it can be daunting for someone faced with this reality. Dr. Potter specializes in natural reconstruction and in this episode talks about the options available today. Board certified by the American Board of Plastic…
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More Than Pink: Build Them Back or Go Flat? with Dr. Julie Sprunt
Dr. Julie Sprunt, Texas Oncology Breast Specialist The decision a breast cancer patient makes about reconstruction isn’t an easy one and has long-lasting implications. Dr. Julie Sprunt, Breast Specialist at Texas Oncology, talks about the options, timelines and the benefits of rebuilding or going flat. She specializes in breast surgery and treats all breast conditions,…
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More Than Pink: Types of Survivorship and Its Effects with Dr. Dawn Hershman
Dr. Dawn Hershman, Columbia University Medical Center, Komen Scholar Dawn Hershman is a tenured professor of medicine and epidemiology at Columbia University, where she leads their breast cancer program, and a nationally recognized expert in breast cancer treatment, prevention, and survivorship. She is also a Komen Scholar. In this episode, Hershman discusses the different struggles…
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More Than Pink: Beating Breast Cancer But Going Broke with Marla Blaylock
Marla Blaylock, Komen Austin Board Member, Survivor Marla Blaylock is the CEO and Founder of Blue Lotus Systems. BLS is an established Austin based full-service IT Services provider with 14 years of history, that brings together world-class experts in strategic IT disciplines. She is also a Komen Austin board member and a breast cancer survivor.…
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Introducing Real Pink by Susan G. Komen
Real Pink is taking real conversations about breast cancer from the doctor’s office to the living room. Hosted by Adam Walker, episodes feature candid conversations with survivors, researchers, physicians, and more. Find answers to your toughest questions and clear, actionable steps to live a better life, longer. At Real Pink, compassionate storytelling meets real inspiration,…
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More Than Pink: Biosimilars May Provide More Treatment Options with Dr. Wendy Chen
Wendy Y. Chen MD, MPH, Senior Physician, Breast Oncology Center Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Faculty member, Harvard Medical School Biosimilar pharmalogics are made from living organisms and offer a new and exciting way to treat breast cancer which can be less expensive, have fewer side effects and replicate the results of their chemical based counterparts.…
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More Than Pink: Targeted Therapies, Biologics and Biosimilars with Dr. Keith Knutson
Keith L. Knutson is the Director of the Discovery and Translation Lab’s Cancer Research Program and a Ph.D., Consultant in the Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Florida. We are getting more and more sophisticated in determining the types of breast cancer tumors and how they act in the body. Dr. Knutson and his team at…
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More Than Pink: Results of the TailorX Study with Dr. Joseph Sparano
Today’s guest is Dr. Joseph Sparano, Professor of Medicine & Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Chemotherapy has been a gold standard for treatment of breast cancer and often over-treats women who may not need this aggressive treatment to treat their breast cancer. Dr. Sparano serves as the study chair for…
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More Than Pink: Solving Breast Cancer with Math with Dr. Dr. Tom Yankeelov
Dr. Tom Yankeelov,W. A. “Tex” Moncrief, Jr. Chair in Computational Engineering and Sciences IV – Computational Oncology The overall goal of Dr. Thomas Yankeelov’s clinical research is to improve patient care by employing advanced imaging methods for the early identification, assessment, and prediction of tumors’ response to therapy. He develops tumor forecasting methods by integrating…
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More Than Pink: More Than Just a Screening with Dr. Elizabeth Morris
As a breast imaging doctor, Dr. Elizabeth Morris interprets radiology images such as mammography (including 3D tomosynthesis and contrast-enhanced mammography), breast ultrasound, and breast MRI (including abbreviated MRI). She also does breast biopsies with imaging guidance. She and her team have pioneered high-risk screening with MRI and offer personalized screening to women with average risk…
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More Than Pink: Life of a Cancer Cell with Dr. Joan Brugge
Dr. Brugge is currently Director of the Ludwig Center at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Brugge has held full professorships at the State University of New York, Stony Brook, and the University of Pennsylvania, where she was named also named as an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. From 1992-1997, Dr. Brugge was Scientific Director…
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More Than Pink: Science Fiction Turned Reality – Nanotech Meets Breast Cancer with Dr. Adrian Lee
Dr. Lee is Professor of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, and Professor of Human Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh. He is also the Pittsburgh Foundation Chair in Precision Medicine. Lee received his B.Sc. and PhD in England, and came to San Antonio for his postdoctoral studies. He was subsequently recruited to Baylor College of Medicine…
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More Than Pink: The Cold Shoulder – Freezing Breast Cancer Tumors with Dr. Vineet Choudhry
Dr. Vineet Choudhry, MD is a general surgery specialist in Austin, TX and has been practicing for 10 years. He graduated from The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center College Of Medicine in 2003 and specializes in general surgery. Dr. Choudhry and Suzanne discuss clinical trials, specifically cryoblation treatment. “Breast cancer is a very…
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More Than Pink: Barriers in Healthcare – The Latino Community Challenge with Jill Rameriz
Jill Ramirez (CEO & President, Latino Healthcare Forum, Austin TX) has made it her personal mission to make sure the Latino community in Austin, Texas has healthcare. She’s spent decades educating her community, training community health workers, and making sure Latinos know how to access healthcare. “I think each community is very warm, has wisdom…
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More Than Pink: The Real Cost of Cancer with Greg Lee
Prior to becoming President of LIVESTRONG in 2016, Greg Lee served as its Chief Financial Officer for nearly 10 years, responsible for the integrity and operation of all financial, accounting, technology and compliance activities for the LIVESTRONG Foundation. LIVESTRONG focuses on the person with cancer, not just the disease itself. We discuss the financial impact…
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More Than Pink: How Culture Can Determine Your Cancer Risk with Dr. Virginia Brown
African American women experience a significantly higher mortality rate than any other ethnicity. The reasons are complex and Virginia Brown, MA, PhD, an Assistant Professor at Dell Medical School in the Department of Population Health has dedicated her career to helping communities understand why and how this is the case. Our discussion is about more…
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More Than Pink: When Breast Cancer Runs in the Family with Jennifer Felch
Having watched her mother go through breast cancer, Jennifer knew her risk was high. She shares with us her journey and the steps she took to catch her cancer early and what happened when she became a patient. Today Jennifer uses her experience to help influence and impact others as a member of the Susan…
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More Than Pink: Evolution of Breast Cancer Care with Dr. Debra Patt
Dr. Debra Patt is a practicing oncologist and breast cancer specialist in Austin, Texas, and a vice president of Texas Oncology. She is an active leader in breast cancer research, serves on the US Oncology Research breast cancer committee, and chairs the breast cancer subsection of the pathways task force for The US Oncology Network.…
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Stronger Together
After treatment for breast cancer ends, staying involved in the breast cancer cause will make a difference in your own life and can also benefit many other people diagnosed with breast cancer and their families, now and in the future. Today, as we gear up for Mother’s Day, we are joined by a mother/daughter duo – Mary Ellen & Emily Davis. Mary Ellen was diagnosed in 2010 with Stage III Triple Negative Breast Cancer when she was 44 years old. Her daughter, Emily, was a teenager when her mom was diagnosed and has dedicated her career to the oncology world. Together, they have been a Komen 3-Day top fundraising team and are now participating in Komen More than Pink Walks. Here today to share their story are Mary Ellen and Emily – welcome to the show!
Continuing a Legacy of Advocacy
Susan G. Komen will host their annual 2022 Advocacy Summit at the end of this month, culminating in a day of action on Wednesday, April 27. The Advocacy Summit is Komen’s only national advocacy event that provides advocates from across the country the opportunity to come together as one voice for those impacted by breast cancer. Advocates will hold hundreds of meetings with their Congressional offices virtually and call on them to support our priority policies.
Joining us today is John Scoblick, a Komen Leadership Council member and advocate whose daughter died of metastatic breast cancer at the age of 36. Before she died, Melissa was a staunch advocate for breast cancer patients, survivors and anyone at risk of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. John has continued on her legacy through his work with Komen and is using his voice to advocate for policies that will help us save lives and put an end to breast cancer. John, welcome to the show!
How Do You Define Strength?
Anyone who’s ever had breast cancer knows what it feels like to hear the words “You have cancer.” You may feel angry, afraid, overwhelmed or unsure about the future. These feelings are normal and allowing yourself to express your emotions can help you begin to cope, which is a process that requires time, acceptance and support. Today’s guest is someone who is accustomed to feeling fully in control of her life – in her late 30’s, she was independent, working in a fast paced career in healthcare media relations and was extremely active and fit. Yet she became one of the 1 in 8 women to hear those words “You have cancer” and suddenly things started to feel out of her control. Deb Song is the Senior Director of National Public Relations and Communications at Susan G. Komen and is here today to share her story and to tell us how her experience with breast cancer redefined what strength meant to her and how she’s learned to embrace life as a team effort. Deb, welcome to the show!
Trusting Your Gut
The signs and symptoms of breast cancer are not the same for everyone. It is important to know your normal and to see your doctor if you notice any changes in your body. Today’s guest has undergone treatment for two different types of breast cancer, being diagnosed the first time in 2007 and again in 2018. Each time she was the one to find a lump and each time she wondered if she was just being paranoid. She is passionate about sharing her story to encourage others to go for their screenings and to listen to that inner voice that might be telling you that something is just not quite right. Here today to share her story is Elizabeth Braun.
The Connection Between Breast and Bone Health
Whether you’re healthy, have just been diagnosed with breast cancer or are living with metastatic breast cancer, the connection between breast and bone health is vital. Some breast cancer treatments can affect bone health, putting women at higher risk for bone density loss. The bones are often the first site of metastases for almost half of women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, which can lead to bone complications including bone fractures and spinal cord compressions. Bone strengthening therapies may be added to treatment plans for these women to protect bones and reduce risk. Today’s guest is passionate about educating women on how to take control of their health by learning what to look for, what questions to ask and what they can do to lower their risks of recurrence. Here today to share her breast cancer experience and how she protects her bones while living with bone metastases is Kim Crist. Kim, welcome to the show!
I’m Still Here
Inflammatory Breast Cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that can often be mistaken for an infection or rash. Today’s guest went to the doctors thinking that she was simply having an allergic reaction. Luckily, her medical team was well versed in IBC and knew that what they were looking at was far more serious than a rash. Here today to share her story of living with Metastatic Inflammatory Breast Cancer and how she is fighting cancer every single day in order to live out her hopes, dreams and plans is Beth Porreca. Beth, welcome to the show!
We All Need Help Sometimes
ust as everyone’s individual breast cancer diagnosis is different, everyone’s life circumstances when they are diagnosed is also different. The emotional support of family, friends and others can be important to help you as you go through diagnosis, treatment and recovery. You might also have to lean on others to help with childcare or to help with daily chores. Costs related to breast cancer can also quickly become a financial burden. Even if you have insurance and your co-payment for a single bill is low, these costs can add up if you get may bills from just one procedure from multiple departments included in your treatments. It’s OK to ask for help and there are many resources available for people with breast cancer. Today’s guest is Shareka Allen. Shareka is a young, independent mother who advocated for herself when she knew that something just wasn’t quite right and had to learn to ask for help along the way. She’s here today to tell her story. Shareka, welcome to the show!
IBC Can’t Stop Me From Living This Life
About 1-5 percent of breast cancers in the U.S are Inflammatory Breast Cancer. This is an aggressive form of breast cancer, with signs that tend to arise quickly, often within weeks or months. The main symptoms of IBC are swelling and redness in the breast, and IBC can be hard to see on a mammogram because it may only show up as a sign of inflammation. Because of this and the frequent lack of a breast lump, IBC may first be mistaken for an infection or mastitis. Today’s guest today is Amy Capello. Amy was diagnosed with Stage 3 IBC at the age of 38 and is here to help educate us on this rare disease in hopes that it can help other women to recognize it more quickly, and to share her refreshing perspective on life since her diagnosis. Amy, welcome to the show!
Knowledge is Power
Fast-growing breast cancers can seem to come out of nowhere. That’s what it was like for today’s guest, Selena Smith-Albino [pronounced al-BEAN-oh], when she felt a lump in her left breast six months after getting a clean bill of health following a mammogram. The diagnosis of stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma led to her decision to undergo genetic testing. Her test results would have repercussions for her entire family. Selena joins us today to share what she’s learned through her experiences that can help other women. Selena, thank you for being our guest!
Cancer Doesn’t Define Me
After completing breast cancer treatment, many women want to leave the experience far behind them and not think about it again. That’s perfectly understandable. Others find that the experience changes their thinking about what they want to do with their life. Our guest today is one of those people. After two cancer diagnoses, she decided to devote her career to helping women navigate the challenges of breast cancer. She is a Community Programs Manager for Stand for H.E.R.—a Health Equity Revolution, a focused initiative to decrease breast cancer disparities in the Black community by 25 percent, beginning in the U.S. metropolitan areas where inequities are greatest. Joining us to walk us through her journey and talk about her work with Stand for H.E.R. is Kamesha Miles. Kamesha, welcome!
There’s Much to be Excited About
A range of factors can contribute to the development of breast cancer, a fact that Dr. Lauren McCullough, an Atlanta-based breast cancer epidemiologist, knows all too well. She studies a wide-range of contributing factors – from race and ethnicity, to genetics and other biomarkers. Black women are still diagnosed at later stages, with more aggressive tumors and are less likely to survive. But advances in research are leading to improvements in breast cancer care for Black women, and for all women. Here to tell us about her research and the advances we might see in the future is Dr. Lauren McCullough. Thank you for joining us; we’re so pleased to have you with us today!
Speaking Up
Women don’t necessarily have to accept the first breast cancer diagnosis we receive; we can seek a second medical opinion. That’s what our next guest, Se’Nita Harris, did. And it proved to be a smart move. It turns out that her diagnosis of metaplastic breast cancer was inaccurate. She actually had triple negative breast cancer, which called for a different treatment. Se’Nita is here today to talk about the importance of women advocating for themselves. Thank you for joining us!